Denarius - Julia Mamaea (VENVS GENETRIX; Cupid and Venus) (225-235) front Denarius - Julia Mamaea (VENVS GENETRIX; Cupid and Venus) (225-235) back
Denarius - Julia Mamaea (VENVS GENETRIX; Cupid and Venus) (225-235) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Julia Mamaea VENVS GENETRIX; Cupid and Venus

 
Silver 3.4 g 19.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Severus Alexander (Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander) (222-235)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
225-235
Value
Denarius (½)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.4 g
Diameter
19.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#279425
Rarity index
94%

Reverse

Venus, draped, standing left, holding apple in right hand and sceptre in left hand; at feet, Cupid.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VENVS GENETRIX

Translation:
Venus Genetrix.
Mother Venus.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.95–4.31 g;
Diameter varies: 19–20 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Cupid and Venus design on the coin was a departure from the traditional imagery of Roman coins, which often featured gods, emperors, or other symbols of power. The use of Cupid and Venus, who were associated with love and fertility, may have been a nod to Julia Mamaea's role as a mother and her efforts to promote family values and stability in Roman society.