Denarius - Augustus (QVOD VIAE MVN SVNT) (18 BC - 17 BC) front Denarius - Augustus (QVOD VIAE MVN SVNT) (18 BC - 17 BC) back
Denarius - Augustus (QVOD VIAE MVN SVNT) (18 BC - 17 BC) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Denarius - Augustus QVOD VIAE MVN SVNT 18 BC - 17 BC

 
Silver 2.9 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Augustus (Caius Octavius) (27 BC - 14 AD)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
18 BC - 17 BC
Value
1 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.9 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#247559
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Legend in four lines on viaduct between two arched surmounted by equestrian statues and trophies.

Script: Latin

Lettering: QVOD VIAE MVN SVNT

Translation:
Quod Viae Munitae Sunt.
For having the highways fortified (rebuilt).

Comment

Mass varies: 2.27–3.43 g;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features the image of Augustus, the first Roman Emperor, on one side, and the goddess Venus on the other. This coin was minted during Augustus' reign, which lasted from 27 BC to 14 AD, and it was used as a means of spreading propaganda and promoting the imperial cult. The inscription "QVOD VIAE MVN SVNT" translates to "Whatever the ways may be," which suggests that the coin was intended to promote the idea of unity and stability under Augustus' rule.