Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Titus

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This silver coin was minted in Rome by the emperor Titus in 80 AD. 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 dolphin on a tripod, perhaps symbolic of the god Apollo. The legend 'TR P IX IMP XV COS VIII P P' refers to Titus's titles, and the number of years they were renewed. This coin records that he held Tribunicia potestas for 9 years, was acclaimed Imperator 15 times, was in his 8th consulship, and held the title Pater Patriae.

Titus issued a number of coins with symbols of gods or goddesses placed on a throne. They may have been prompted by the eruption of the volcano Vesuvius in 79 AD which destroyed Pompeii and other cities. Such a tragedy turned people's attentions towards the gods and goddesses.

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• Online ID: 000-180-001-578-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
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• Ref: National Museums Scotland  
• Date: Minted in 80 AD
  
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  • Mattingly, Harold and Sydenham, Edward A. The Roman Imperial Coinage. Vol. II. Vespasian to Hadrian. London: Spink & Son, Ltd, 1926. 
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