minted in Rome

Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Lucius Memmius

This silver coin was minted in Rome by Lucius Memmius in either 109 or 108 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 Dioscuri standing between their horses, facing each other and holding spears. Below is the inscription 'L. MEM [MI]', an abbreviation of the moneyer's name.

In Greek legend, the Dioscuri were Caster and Pollux, the twin brothers of Helen, and the sons of Zeus. Their cult was taken over by the Romans, and they were seen as the protectors of the Roman people.

Record details

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Online ID:	000-190-000-384-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland H.C15139
Date:	109 - 108 109 or 108 BC
Material:	Silver; both sides slightly off-centre; moderate wear. Inscription: Obv. Male head to right, wearing oak-wreath (Apollo?); star below chin / Rev. Dioscuri standing facing, between their horses, each holding spear; L . MEM [MI] in exergue
Dimensions:	20.00 x 19.00 mm D / Die Axis: 7.0
What:	Coin Type: Crawford 304/1 Coin, denarius
Subject:	Queen Street Coin Collection
Who:	Apollo? Dioscuri L. Memmius (Maker)
Where:	Italy, Rome Roman Republic
Event:
Description:	Silver denarius of Rome, struck by L. Memmius, 109 - 108 BC
References:	Crawford, M.H. Roman Republican Coinage. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1976.
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