© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
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 | 3.7 g | 18.5 mm |
| 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 | 18.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#247837 |
|---|---|
| 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
Mass varies: 3.36–4.02 g;Diameter varies: 18–20 mm;
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.
