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Denarius - Vespasian COS VIII; Mars
| Silver | 3.2 g | 18.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Vespasian (Titus Flavius Vespasianus) (69-79) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 77-78 |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.2 g |
| Diameter | 18.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#249846 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 93% |
Reverse
Mars, helmeted, naked except for cloak round waist, standing left, holding spear slanting upwards in right hand and trophy on left shoulder in left.
Script: Latin
Lettering: COS VIII
Unabridged legend: Consul Octavum.
Translation: Consul for the eighth time.
Comment
Mass varies: 2.76–3.55 g;Diameter varies: 17–20 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a depiction of Mars, the Roman god of war, on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Vespasian. This suggests that the coin was minted during a time of military conflict or expansion, and that the Roman Empire was seeking to emphasize its military prowess and power.