Add to albumThis silver coin was minted in Rome by Lucius Memmius Galerius in 106 BC. It is a type of coin known as a denarius serratus due to its serrated edge. This picture shows the reverse.
The reverse depicts Venus, the goddess of love, holding a sceptor and driving a vehicle called a biga. Above her Cupid is flying, holding a wreath. Below is the legend 'L. MEMMI / GAL' (the letters ME are joined), an abbreviation of the moneyer's name.
The Romans needed coins for three main purposes: to pay the salaries of her huge military force, to pay the salaries of her officials and to fund public works. Much of the silver needed to fund these issues came from tribute from the provinces.
Record details
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- Online ID: 000-190-000-389-C
- Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
- Project:
National Museums Scotland
Project description View all records in project
- Ref: National Museums Scotland H.C15149
- Date: 106
106 BC
- Material: Silver; serrated edge; both sides slightly off-centre; moderate wear. Inscription: Obv. Laureate head of Saturn to left; behind, harpa and ROMA, upwards; in front, X and pellet / Rev. Venus in biga to right, holding sceptre; above, Cupid flying right, hol
Coin Type: Crawford 313/1b
Coin, denarius / serratus
- Dimensions: 17.50 mm D / Die Axis: 5.0
- What: Coin Type: Crawford 313/1b
Coin, denarius / serratus
- Subject: Queen Street Coin Collection
- Who: L. Memmius Galerius (Maker)
Saturn
Venus
- Where: Italy, Rome
Roman Republic
- Event:
- Description: Silver denarius serratus of Rome, struck by L. Memmius Galerius, 106 BC
- References:
- Crawford, M.H. Roman Republican Coinage. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1976.
- Translations:
- Related Records: