Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Augustus

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This silver coin was minted at Lugdunum (Lyons) by the emperor Augustus between 15 BC and 13 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 bull butting its head to the right. The legend 'IMP. X' below refers to the fact that Augustus was proclaimed Imperator (military commander) for the 10th time. The design of the bull has been interpreted as a symbol of southern Gaul, as well as referring to a nickname of Augustus.

In the early years of his reign, Augustus minted coins in a number of places. For reasons still little understood, in the latter part of his reign Augustus made Lugdunum (Lyon) in Gaul his only mint for gold and silver.

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• Online ID: 000-180-001-630-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
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• Ref: National Museums Scotland  
• Date: Minted between 15 and 13 BC
  
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• References:
  • Mattingly, Harold. Roman coins from the earliest times to the fall of the Western Empire. London: Spint & Son Ltd, rev. ed., 1977, p 171. 
  • 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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