Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Publius Plautius Hypsaeus

This silver coin was minted in Rome by Publius Plautius Hypsaeus in 60 BC. It is a type called a denarius, the most common Roman silver coin. It was a special issue, as indicated by the legend 'S.C' on the obverse. This picture shows the reverse.

The reverse depicts Jupiter, father of the gods, driving a vehicle called a quadriga and hurling a thunderbolt. The legend is an abbreviation of 'Caius Ypsaeus consul Privernum cepit', recording the capture of Privernum by the moneyer's ancestor.

In 60 BC the so-called First Triumvirate was formed, a loose alliance of Pompey, Caesar and Crassus. This was a turning point in the history of the Republic, and led ultimately to the Civil War in 49 BC.

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