Denarius - Pescennius Niger (VIRTVTI AVG; Mars) (193-194) front Denarius - Pescennius Niger (VIRTVTI AVG; Mars) (193-194) back
no image

Denarius - Pescennius Niger VIRTVTI AVG; Mars

 
Silver 2.9 g 19 mm
Description
Issuer
Usurpations of Syria (Roman Imperial usurpations)
Ruling authority
Pescennius Niger (193-194)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
193-194
Value
Denarius (1)
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.9 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#271363
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Mars, helmeted, in military dress, standing front, head right, holding spear in right hand and leaning left onto shield.

Lettering: VIRTVTI AVG

Translation:
Virtuti Augusti.
To the courage of the emperor (Augustus).

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features the image of Mars, the Roman god of war, on the reverse side, which was a common motif on coins issued during the reign of Pescennius Niger. This suggests that Niger, who was a usurper emperor, may have been trying to emphasize his military prowess and authority through the use of this imagery.