Denarius - Augustus (L MESCINIVS RVFVS IIIVIR S P Q R V P S PR S ET RED AVG; Mars) (16 BC) front Denarius - Augustus (L MESCINIVS RVFVS IIIVIR S P Q R V P S PR S ET RED AVG; Mars) (16 BC) back
Denarius - Augustus (L MESCINIVS RVFVS IIIVIR S P Q R V P S PR S ET RED AVG; Mars) (16 BC) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Denarius - Augustus L MESCINIVS RVFVS IIIVIR S P Q R V P S PR S ET RED AVG; Mars 16 BC

16 BC year
Silver 3.9 g -
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
3.9 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#247834
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 P S PR S ET RED AVG.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
L MESCINIVS RVFVS IIIVIR
S P Q R V P S PR S ET RED AVG

Translation:
Lucius Mescinius Rufus Triumvir Auro, Argento, Aere, Flando, Feriundo. Senatus Populusque Romanus Vota Publica Suscepta Pro Salute Et Reditu Augusti.
Lucius Mescinius Rufus, moneyer (Triumvir Monetalis) for the casting and striking of gold, silver, and bronze coins. The senate and the Roman people make public sacrifices for the well-being and the safe return of the emperor (Augustus).

Comment

Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a rare representation of the Roman god of war, Mars, on its reverse side. The image of Mars is depicted in a bold and powerful stance, holding a spear and shield, symbolizing the military prowess and strength of the Roman Empire during the reign of Augustus. This coin is considered a valuable collector's item among numismatists and historians, offering a unique glimpse into the iconography and ideology of ancient Rome.