© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Denarius - Vespasian COS VIII; Mars
| Silver | 3.1 g | 18 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 | 3.1 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#249848 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
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; corn-ear upright in ground, on right.
Script: Latin
Lettering: COS VIII
Translation:
Consul Octavum.
Consul for the eighth time.
Comment
Mass varies: 2.65–3.46 g;Diameter varies: 17.5–19 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a depiction of the Roman god Mars on the reverse side, which was a common motif on coins during the reign of Vespasian. This suggests that the coin was likely minted during a time of military conflict or expansion, as Mars was associated with war and conquest. Additionally, the fact that the coin is made of silver suggests that it was a valuable and widely used denomination in the Roman Empire.
