In 1939, a major archaeological discovery was made in Aventicum, the ancient capital of the Helvetii, which is now located in modern-day Switzerland. Aventicum, incorporated into the Roman Empire in 15 BC under Emperor Augustus, was a site of immense historical significance.

Among the remarkable finds from this excavation was an extraordinary golden bust of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. This artifact stands out as the largest known emperor’s bust crafted from gold, showcasing the exceptional artistry and craftsmanship of the Roman Empire.

What makes this golden bust even more remarkable is its rarity. It is one of the very few gold busts from antiquity that have not been melted down over the centuries, making it an incredibly rare and valuable relic. This survival underscores the historical and artistic value of this stunning artifact from ancient Rome.