Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Augustus

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This silver coin was minted in Spain by the emperor Augustus around 19 or 18 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 comet with eight rays, its tail pointing upwards. The legend 'DIVVS IVLIVS' ('divine Julius') refers to Julius Caesar who was proclaimed a god almost immediately after his death. Augustus was the adopted son and heir of Caesar.

The comet on this design refers to one which was seen after Caesar's death. According to the historian Suetonius, it appeared on the first day of the Games given by Augustus in honour of Caesar, and showed for seven days running. It was considered to be Caesar's soul ascending to Heaven.

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• Online ID: 000-180-001-513-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
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• Ref: National Museums Scotland  
• Date: Minted around 19 or 18 BC
  
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• References:
  • Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus. The Twelve Caesars. Translated by Robert Graves. London: Book Club Associates, 1979, p 45. 
  • 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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