Denarius (MARTI VLTORI; Genius and Mars) (68-69) front Denarius (MARTI VLTORI; Genius and Mars) (68-69) back
Denarius (MARTI VLTORI; Genius and Mars) (68-69) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Denarius MARTI VLTORI; Genius and Mars

 
Silver 2.7 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Period
Civil War (68-69)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
68-69
Value
1 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.7 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#248431
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Mars standing advancing to the right, helmeted, brandishing a javelin with his right hand and holding a round shield with his left hand, his parazonium slung over his left side.

Script: Latin

Lettering: MARTI VLTORI

Translation:
Marti Ultori.
To Mars, the avenger.

Comment

Several variations are known with short or long hair, along with engraving style variations.

Long hair, fine engraving variation:

© Leu Numismatik

Interesting fact

The Denarius coin features a unique combination of symbols and imagery. The obverse side bears the image of Mars, the Roman god of war, while the reverse side features the Genius of the Roman people, which represents the spirit or genius of the Roman state. This combination of military power and national spirit reflects the importance of military prowess and patriotism in Roman culture during this time period.