Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Augustus

This silver coin was minted in Spain by the emperor Augustus around 19 BC. It is a type called a denarius, the most common Roman silver coin. This picture shows the reverse of the coin.

The reverse depicts an oak wreath enclosing a shield with the legend 'S P. Q. R / CL. V' on two lines. This design alludes to the golden shield granted to Augustus by the Senate. The legend 'OB. CIVIS' above and 'SERVAT [OS]' below ('for saving the citizens'} refers to the general increase of public security during his rule. Both themes appear on a number of coins issued by Augustus.

In 27 BC, the Senate granted Octavian the title Augustus, by which he was known for the rest of his life. They also voted him an oak wreath for saving the citizens, which he used as a symbol of his attention to public security throughout his reign.

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Online ID:	000-180-001-653-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0504: National Museums Scotland Part 2 Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland
Date:	Minted around 19 BC
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References:	Sutherland, C.H.V. The Roman Imperial Coinage. From 31 BC to AD 69. Vol. 1, revised ed. London: Spink and Son Ltd, 1984.
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