Denarius - Pescennius Niger VIRTVTI AVG; Mars
| Silver | - | - |
| 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 |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#271364 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Mars, helmeted, nude except cloak on left shoulder, advancing left, holding spear in right hand and round shield in left hand.
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 legitimacy through the use of this imagery.