© British Museum
© British Museum
Denarius Purpurio; ROMA P͡V͡R 179 BC - 170 BC
| Silver | 3.87 g | 19 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Republic (509 BC - 27 BC) |
|---|---|
| Period | Republic (509 BC - 27 BC) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 179 BC - 170 BC |
| Value | Denarius (1) |
| Currency | Denarius of 10 Asses (221 – 141 BC) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.87 g |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#392519 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Dioscuri galloping, right. Line border.
Script: Latin
Lettering: ROMA P͡V͡R
Interesting fact
The Denarius (Purpurio; ROMA P͡V͡R) coin was used during the Roman Republic (509 BC - 27 BC) and features a unique design on its reverse side. The reverse side depicts a mythical creature called a "Purpurio," which is a sea-god with the body of a dolphin and the head of a man. This design was meant to symbolize the power and influence of the Roman Republic, as well as its connection to the sea and trade. The use of this mythical creature on the coin's reverse side is a distinct feature of Roman Republican coins and sets them apart from other ancient coins.
