Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Titus Carisius

This silver coin was minted in Rome by Titus Carisius in 46 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 the Sphinx, a monster with a human head and body of a lion, which originates in Egypt. Above the head is the legend 'T.CARISIVS' referring to the moneyer. The legend below, 'III.VIR', indicates his official position.

In the 1st century BC, Rome gradually gained control of Egypt, supporting members of the Ptolemy dynasty. In the winter of 48-47 BC Caesar was in Egypt, supporting the claims, and becoming the lover, of Cleopatra. She later lived in Rome as his mistress.

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Online ID:	000-190-000-049-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland A.1915.158
Date:	46 BC
Material:	Silver. Inscription: Obv. Head of Sibyl r. / Rev. Sphinx r.; above head of sphinx, T.CARISIVS; in exergue, III.VIR
Dimensions:	19.50 mm D / Die Axis: 4.5
What:	Coin, denarius
Subject:	Ancient Coin Collection
Who:	Sibyl
Where:	Italy, Rome
Event:
Description:	Silver denarius of the Roman Republic, Rome, 46 BC
References:	Crawford, M.H. Roman Republican Coinage. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1976.
Translations:
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