Denarius - Augustus (L MESCINIVS RVFVS III VIR. S P Q R V PR RE CAES.; Mars) (16 BC) front Denarius - Augustus (L MESCINIVS RVFVS III VIR. S P Q R V PR RE CAES.; Mars) (16 BC) back
Denarius - Augustus (L MESCINIVS RVFVS III VIR. S P Q R V PR RE CAES.; Mars) (16 BC) photo
© Roma Numismatics Limited

Denarius - Augustus L MESCINIVS RVFVS III VIR. S P Q R V PR RE CAES.; Mars 16 BC

16 BC year
Silver 3.7 g 19 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Augustus (Caius Octavius) (27 BC - 14 AD)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
16 BC
Value
1 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.7 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#247833
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Mars, helmeted and cloaked, standing left, holding spear in right hand and parazonium in left, on pedestal inscribed S P Q R V PR RE CAES.

Script: Latin

Lettering: L MESCINIVS RVFVS III VIR. S P Q R V PR RE CAES.

Translation:
Lucius Mescinius Rufus. Senatus Populusque Romanus Pro Reditu Caesari.
Lucius Mescinius Rufus. The senate and the Roman people for the safe return of the Caesar.

Comment

Mass varies: 3.49–4.02 g;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Mars, the Roman god of war, on its reverse side. This is significant because Augustus, the emperor who issued the coin, was known for his military conquests and expansion of the Roman Empire. The inclusion of Mars on the coin may have been a way to emphasize Augustus' military prowess and reinforce his image as a powerful and victorious leader.