Denarius - Octavian (IMP CAESAR DIVI F) (31 BC - 27 BC) front Denarius - Octavian (IMP CAESAR DIVI F) (31 BC - 27 BC) back
Denarius - Octavian (IMP CAESAR DIVI F) (31 BC - 27 BC) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Octavian IMP CAESAR DIVI F 31 BC - 27 BC

 
Silver 3.8 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
31 BC - 27 BC
Value
1 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.8 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#248089
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Round shield with three concentric rows of studs and central boss.

Script: Latin

Lettering: IMP CAESAR DIVI F

Translation:
Imperator Caesari Divi Filius.
Supreme commander (Imperator), son of the divine Caesar.

Comment

Mass varies: 3.24–4 g;
Diameter varies: 17–19 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Octavian, who would later become the Roman Emperor Augustus, on the obverse (front side), while the reverse (back side) depicts a comet, which was a symbol of divine approval and a sign of good fortune. This coin was minted during a time when Octavian was still consolidating his power and legitimacy as the new ruler of Rome, following the death of his adoptive father and predecessor, Julius Caesar. The inclusion of the comet on the coin may have been a way to emphasize Octavian's divine right to rule and to promote his image as a powerful and auspicious leader.