© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Aureus MARS VLTOR; Genius and Mars
| Gold | 7.29 g | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Period | Civil War (68-69) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 68-69 |
| Value | 1 Aureus = 25 Denarii |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 7.29 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#248457 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Mars advancing right, wearing only helmet, holding javelin in right hand, round shield in left; left, parazonium.
Script: Latin
Lettering: MARS VLTOR
Translation:
Mars Ultor.
Mars, the avenger.
Comment
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique combination of imagery and symbolism. On one side, it depicts the Roman god of war, Mars, standing triumphantly with a spear and shield, while on the other side, it shows the Genius of the Roman people, represented as a bearded man holding a scepter and a patera (a ritual offering dish). This combination of military power and spiritual authority reflects the dual nature of the Roman Empire at the time, which was both a powerful military force and a center of cultural and religious influence.
