Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Augustus

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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 the goddess Victory standing on a globe, symbolising the domination of Rome. She holds a wreath and palm. The legend 'CAESAR DIVI F' proclaims Octavian son of a god. Octavian was the grand-nephew and heir of Julius Caesar, who had been proclaimed a god after his death.

The last years of the Republic were marked by civil war. At the battle of Actium in 31 BC, the troops of Mark Antony were defeated by Octavian. A number of Octavian's coins commemorate this important victory.

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• Online ID: 000-180-001-590-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
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• 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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