Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Augustus

This silver coin was minted at Lugdunum (Lyons) by the emperor Augustus around 12 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 a capricorn (sea goat) holding a globe. The legend 'IMP : XI' records that Augustus was acclaimed Imperator (military commander) by the troops for the 11th time.

Augustus used a capricorn on a number of his coins issued at different dates. Contemporary texts record the belief that he was born under the sign of the constellation Capricorn, and the coins may commemorate the favourable future predicted by astrologers on his birth.

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Online ID:	000-180-001-624-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 12 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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