© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Aureus CAESAR AVGVSTVS OCS; Medusa 19 BC - 4 BC
| Gold | 8 g | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Augustus (Caius Octavius) (27 BC - 14 AD) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 19 BC - 4 BC |
| Value | 1 Aureus = 25 Denarii |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 8 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#247782 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Two laurel branches flanking oak-wreath; inside, OCS.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
CAESAR AVGVSTVS
OCS
Translation:
Caesar Augustus. Ob Cives Servatos.
Caesar Augustus. For saving the citizens.
Comment
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Aureus coin is that it features the image of Medusa on one side, which was a symbol of the Roman Empire's power and authority. Medusa was a mythical creature from ancient Greek mythology, known for her venomous snakes for hair and her ability to turn people to stone with a single glance. The inclusion of Medusa's image on the coin was likely meant to convey the power and strength of the Roman Empire, and to serve as a warning to those who would challenge its authority.
