Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Quintus Cassius Longinus

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This silver coin was minted in Rome by Quintus Cassius Longinus in 55 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 an eagle with its wings spread standing on a thunderbolt. The staff (lituus) and jug are both symbols of Augurship, a priestly post with associated judicial functions. The legend 'Q.CASSIVS' refers to the moneyer.

The exact symbolism behind the elements of this coin are not entirely clear, but as a whole they relate to the concept of 'imperium', the authority of government.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-190-000-440-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.C15303
• Date: 55
  55 BC
  
• Material: Silver; both sides slightly off-centre; very slight accretion on obverse; slight to moderate wear. Inscription: Obv. Head of Genius Populi Romani to right, with sceptre over shoulder / Rev. Eagle standing right on thunderbolt, wings spread; lituus on left
  Coin Type: Crawford 428/3
  Coin, denarius
  
• Dimensions: 19.00 x 18.00 mm D / Die Axis: 2.5
  
• What: Coin Type: Crawford 428/3
  Coin, denarius
  
• Subject: Queen Street Coin Collection
  
• Who: Genius Populi Romani
  Q. Cassius Longinus (Maker)
  
• Where: Italy, Rome
  Roman Republic
  
• Event:
• Description: Silver denarius of Rome, minted by Q. Cassius Longinus, 55 BC
  
• References:
  • Crawford, M.H. Roman Republican Coinage. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1976. 
• Translations:
• Related Records: