minted in Rome

Coin (reverse), Denarius serratus, of Lucius Memmius Galerius

This silver coin was minted in Rome by Lucius Memmius Galerius in 106 BC. It is a type of coin known as a denarius serratus due to its serrated edge. This picture shows the reverse.

The reverse depicts Venus, the goddess of love, holding a sceptor and driving a vehicle called a biga. Above her Cupid is flying, holding a wreath. Below is the legend 'L. MEMMI / GAL' (the letters ME are joined), an abbreviation of the moneyer's name.

The Romans needed coins for three main purposes: to pay the salaries of her huge military force, to pay the salaries of her officials and to fund public works. Much of the silver needed to fund these issues came from tribute from the provinces.

Record details

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Online ID:	000-190-000-389-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland H.C15149
Date:	106 106 BC
Material:	Silver; serrated edge; both sides slightly off-centre; moderate wear. Inscription: Obv. Laureate head of Saturn to left; behind, harpa and ROMA, upwards; in front, X and pellet / Rev. Venus in biga to right, holding sceptre; above, Cupid flying right, hol
Dimensions:	17.50 mm D / Die Axis: 5.0
What:	Coin Type: Crawford 313/1b Coin, denarius / serratus
Subject:	Queen Street Coin Collection
Who:	L. Memmius Galerius (Maker) Saturn Venus
Where:	Italy, Rome Roman Republic
Event:
Description:	Silver denarius serratus of Rome, struck by L. Memmius Galerius, 106 BC
References:	Crawford, M.H. Roman Republican Coinage. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1976.
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