minted in Rome

Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Quintus Cassius Longinus

This silver coin was minted in Rome by Quintus Cassius Longinus in 55 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 an eagle with its wings spread standing on a thunderbolt. The staff (lituus) and jug are both symbols of Augurship, a priestly post with associated judicial functions. The legend 'Q.CASSIVS' refers to the moneyer.

The exact symbolism behind the elements of this coin are not entirely clear, but as a whole they relate to the concept of 'imperium', the authority of government.

Record details

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Online ID:	000-190-000-440-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland H.C15303
Date:	55 55 BC
Material:	Silver; both sides slightly off-centre; very slight accretion on obverse; slight to moderate wear. Inscription: Obv. Head of Genius Populi Romani to right, with sceptre over shoulder / Rev. Eagle standing right on thunderbolt, wings spread; lituus on left
Dimensions:	19.00 x 18.00 mm D / Die Axis: 2.5
What:	Coin Type: Crawford 428/3 Coin, denarius
Subject:	Queen Street Coin Collection
Who:	Genius Populi Romani Q. Cassius Longinus (Maker)
Where:	Italy, Rome Roman Republic
Event:
Description:	Silver denarius of Rome, minted by Q. Cassius Longinus, 55 BC
References:	Crawford, M.H. Roman Republican Coinage. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1976.
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