Coin (obverse), Denarius serratus, of Caius Marius Caii filius Capito

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This silver coin was minted in Rome by Caius Marius Capito, son of Caius, in 81 BC. It is a type known as a denarius serratus, due to its serrated edge. It was a special issue, as indicated by the legend on the reverse. This picture shows the obverse.

The obverse depicts Ceres, the corn goddess. Around her and on the left is the legend 'CAPIT.CXXXIIII', the first part referring to the moneyer. The last part, the Roman numeral, and the bell below the chin are mint control-marks, used to control dies.

From the beginning of the denarius through to the mid 60's BC, certain issues were made with serrated edges, cut with a chisel before striking the coin. The reasons behind this practice are not known, but perhaps were due merely to fashion.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-065-675-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.C15243
• Date: 81
  81 BC
  
• Material: Silver; serrated edge; obverse slightly off-centre; fairly worn. Inscription: Obv. Draped bust of Ceres to right; around, on left and above, CAPIT . CXXXIIII; bell below chin / Rev. Ploughman with yoke of oxen to left; CXXXIIII above; C . MARI . C . F / S
  Coin Type: Crawford 378/1c
  Coin, denarius / serratus
  
• Dimensions: 19.00 mm D / Die Axis: 4.5
  
• What: Coin Type: Crawford 378/1c
  Coin, denarius / serratus
  
• Subject: Queen Street Coin Collection
  
• Who: C. Marius C. f. Capito (Maker)
  Ceres
  
• Where: Italy, Rome
  Roman Republic
  
• Event:
• Description: Silver denarius serratus of Rome, minted by C. Marius C. f. Capito, 81 BC
  
• References:
  • Crawford, M.H. Roman Republican Coinage. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1976. 
• Translations:
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