Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Augustus

This silver coin was minted somewhere in Italy by Octavian (later known as the emperor Augustus) around 32 to 29 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 naked male figure, identified as Mercury, the god of travel, trade and commerce. He is seated on a cloak on a rock, his hat slung behind, and both hands holding a lyre. The design probably alludes to the restoration of commerce under Octavian.

The legend 'CAESAR' to the left and 'DIVI F' to the right, translate as 'Caesar, son of a god'. After Octavian was adopted by his great-uncle, Julius Caesar, in 44 BC, he could use the name Caesar. Julius Caesar was deified shortly after his death in 42 BC, making Octavian the son of a god.

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Online ID:	000-180-001-588-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 32 to 29 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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