© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Denarius - Augustus MART VLT; Mars 19 BC
19 BC year| Silver | 3.6 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 | 19 BC |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.6 g |
| Diameter | 18.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#247467 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Tetrastyle round domed temple, Mars, helmeted and cloaked, standing inside left, holding aquila in right hand and parazonium in left.
Script: Latin
Lettering: MART VLT
Translation:
Marti Ultori.
To Mars, the avenger.
Comment
Mass varies: 3.46–3.72 g;Diameter varies: 18–19 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Denarius - Augustus (MART VLT; Mars) coin from Rome, minted in 19 BC, features a unique design on its reverse side. Instead of the usual depiction of a Roman deity or a personification of a province, it shows a representation of the planet Mars, which was a rare occurrence in Roman coinage. This design choice was likely made to commemorate Augustus' victory over the tribes in the Roman province of Germania, which was associated with the planet Mars. This coin is a fascinating example of how ancient coins were used not only as a medium of exchange but also as a means of propaganda and storytelling.
