Record

Coin (obverse), Denarius of Marcus Mettius

< 1 of 1 > Back

minted in Rome

Postcard of Coin (obverse), Denarius of Marcus Mettius.
000-100-065-791-C
© National Museums Scotland

Coin (obverse), Denarius of Marcus Mettius

This silver coin was minted in Rome by Marcus Mettius in 44 BC. It is a type called a denarius, the most common Roman silver coin. This picture shows the obverse of the coin.

The obverse depicts the wreathed head of Julius Caesar. Behind him are symbols of his priestly offices of Augur (the lituus or staff) and Pontifex Maximus (the culullus or bowl). In front is the legend 'CAESAR.IM [P]' for Caesar Imperator.

The design of this issue, and those of the other three moneyers who struck coins in this year, are the first instances of a portrait of Caesar appearing on coins. It is unclear whether this predates his assassination on the Ides of March.


Record details

To search on related items, click any linked text below.

Online ID: 000-100-065-791-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.C15359
Date: 44
44 BC
Material: Silver; both sides off-centre; reverse a little weak; slight to moderate wear. Inscription: Obv. Wreathed head of Caesar to right; lituus and culullus behind; in front, CAESAR . IM [P], downwards / Rev. Venus standing left, holding Victory and sceptre, an
Dimensions: 19.00 x 18.00 mm D / Die Axis: 12.0
What: Coin Type: Crawford 480/3
Coin, denarius
Subject: Queen Street Coin Collection
Who: Caesar
M. Mettius (Maker)
Venus
Where: Italy, Rome
Roman Republic
Event:
Description: Silver denarius of Caesar, Rome, minted by M. Mettius, 44 BC
References:
  • Crawford, M.H. Roman Republican Coinage. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1976. 
Translations:
Related Records:
< 1 of 1 > Back
 
Powered by Scran