Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Nerva

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This silver coin was minted in Rome by the emperor Nerva in 97 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 symbols of priestly office: a ladle, sprinkler, ewer and staff. The legend 'COS III PATER PATRIAE' refers to two of Nerva's titles: Consul, held for the 3rd time, and 'Father of his Country', a coveted award granted by the Senate.

State and religious matters were intertwined in Rome. Most emperors held religious offices as well as their secular ones. Nerva, for example, records on the obverse his title as Pontifex Maximus. Good emperors were consecrated gods after their deaths, and the living emperor was worshipped in the provinces.

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• Online ID: 000-180-001-670-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
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• Ref: National Museums Scotland  
• Date: Minted in 97 AD
  
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• References:
  • Mattingly, Harold and Sydenham, Edward A. The Roman Imperial Coinage. Vol. II. Vespasian to Hadrian. London: Spink & Son, Ltd, 1926. 
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