Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Lucius Memmius

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This silver coin was minted in Rome by Lucius Memmius in either 109 or 108 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 Dioscuri standing between their horses, facing each other and holding spears. Below is the inscription 'L. MEM [MI]', an abbreviation of the moneyer's name.

In Greek legend, the Dioscuri were Caster and Pollux, the twin brothers of Helen, and the sons of Zeus. Their cult was taken over by the Romans, and they were seen as the protectors of the Roman people.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-190-000-384-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.C15139
• Date: 109 - 108
  109 or 108 BC
  
• Material: Silver; both sides slightly off-centre; moderate wear. Inscription: Obv. Male head to right, wearing oak-wreath (Apollo?); star below chin / Rev. Dioscuri standing facing, between their horses, each holding spear; L . MEM [MI] in exergue
  Coin Type: Crawford 304/1
  Coin, denarius
  
• Dimensions: 20.00 x 19.00 mm D / Die Axis: 7.0
  
• What: Coin Type: Crawford 304/1
  Coin, denarius
  
• Subject: Queen Street Coin Collection
  
• Who: Apollo?
  Dioscuri
  L. Memmius (Maker)
  
• Where: Italy, Rome
  Roman Republic
  
• Event:
• Description: Silver denarius of Rome, struck by L. Memmius, 109 - 108 BC
  
• References:
  • Crawford, M.H. Roman Republican Coinage. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1976. 
• Translations:
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