minted in Rome
This silver coin was minted in Rome by Aulus Postumius Albinus, son of Aulus, grandson of Spurius, in 81 BC. It is a type known as a denarius serratus, due to its serrated edge. This picture shows the reverse of the coin.
The reverse has a figure wearing a toga, his right hand raised. He stands between military and civilian symbols - the legionary eagle and judicial symbol of fasces (rods bound with an axe). The legend 'A.POST.A.F.S.N.ALBIN' identifies the moneyer.
From the beginning of the denarius through to the mid 60's BC, certain issues were made with serrated edges, cut with a chisel before striking the coin. The reasons behind this practice are not known, but perhaps were due merely to fashion.
To search on related items, click any underlined text below.