© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Aureus - Augustus PONTIF MAXIM
| Gold | 7.9 g | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Augustus (Caius Octavius) (27 BC - 14 AD) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 13-14 |
| Value | 1 Aureus = 25 Denarii |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 7.9 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#247681 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Female figure, draped, seated right, holding branch in left hand and leaning right on sceptre.
Script: Latin
Lettering: PONTIF MAXIM
Unabridged legend: Pontifex Maximus
Translation: High priest
Comment
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Aureus coin is that it was used as a means of propaganda by the Roman Empire. The coin features an image of Augustus, the first Roman Emperor, with the title "PONTIF MAXIM" which means "Supreme Pontiff" in Latin. This title was used to emphasize Augustus' role as the spiritual leader of the Roman people, and to promote the idea that he was a divine ruler appointed by the gods. The coin's design was meant to convey the message that Augustus was a powerful and benevolent leader, and to promote loyalty and unity among the Roman people.
