Index of Images, Roman Coins: Empire: Barbara F. McManus

Go to Index, Part I, Part II, Part III, Part IV, Part V, Part VI, Part VII, Part VIII, Part IX, Part X, Part XI, Part XII, Part XIII, Part XIV, Part XV, Roman Coins: Republic and Principate, Greek Coins, Coins from the Museum of Cultural History, University of Oslo, Coins from the National Museum in Warsaw, Poland, Coins from the Hunterian Museum

gold bar; fragment of gold bar, late 4th century CE
stamped 4 times with name of imperial accountant Flavianus and once with name of imperial assayer Lucianus; at this time gold coins collected for taxes were immediately melted down, formed into bars, and sent to the emperor's residence to prevent pilfering by imperial officials
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coinage

brass contorniate, c. 5th century CE;
larger version.
The coin depicts a banking or money-changing scene (note the presence of women).
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin; donative

brass contorniate, c. 4th century CE
depicting process of striking coins—bullion is cast into individual coin-shaped blanks ("flans"). These are placed on an anvil die engraved with the obverse image. A punch die engraved with the reverse image is placed on top of the flan and hit with a hammer; both dies are struck simultaneously.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: coin; donative; coinmaking

another brass coin depicting the process of striking coins, Roman
Two seated men hold the punch die over the anvil die while a third man prepares to strike the dies with a hammer.
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin; coinmaking

anvil coin die created by Giovanni Cavino, early sixteenth century, Padua
Cavino was a Renaissance engraver and medallist who struck bronze coins that imitated Roman sestertii in design and striking process. Hence his dies give us some idea of what ancient Roman coin dies may have looked like. This die imitates genuine coins of Lucius Aelius Caesar, adopted son and heir of Hadrian who died prematurely in January of 138 CE before he could succeed the emperor.
Paris, Cabinet des Médailles, Bibliothèque Nationale. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: coin; coinmaking

anvil coin die created by Giovanni Cavino, early sixteenth century, Padua
This die imitates genuine coins of Nero, as can be seen when the image is flipped and a genuine Roman sestertius of Nero is superimposed on it.
Paris, Cabinet des Médailles, Bibliothèque Nationale. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: coin; coinmaking

bronze coin: Aeneas and Ascanius leave Troy; 1st-3rd century CE
minted by city of Ilium
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 1999
Keywords: Vergil; Aeneid; mythology

copper coin (as) issued by Antoninus Pius in 147 CE as part of his celebration commemorating the 900th anniversary of the foundation of Rome;
depicts Aeneas leaving Troy with Ascanius and Anchises
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: Aeneid, Vergil, mythology

copper coin (as) issued by Antoninus Pius in 147 CE as part of his celebration commemorating the 900th anniversary of the foundation of Rome;
depicts the white sow with 30 piglets that was a sign for Aeneas that he had reached the site of Alba Longa.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: Aeneid, Vergil, mythology

copper coin (as) issued by Antoninus Pius, mint of Rome; smaller version.
Issued in 147 CE as part of his celebration commemorating the 900th anniversary of the foundation of Rome, the reverse of this coin depicts the god Mars visiting the sleeping Vestal Virgin Rhea Silvia to conceive Romulus and Remus.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: foundation myth; legend

copper coin (as) issued by Antoninus Pius; larger version.
Issued in 147 CE as part of his celebration commemorating the 900th anniversary of the foundation of Rome, this coin depicts the god Mars visiting the sleeping Vestal Virgin Rhea Silvia to conceive Romulus and Remus.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: foundation myth; legend

aureus of Antoninus Pius; Rome, 140-144 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts Romulus carrying a spear and a trophy (the spolia opima) and wearing patrician shoes, possibly in imitation of the statue of Romulus in the Forum of Augustus.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: early history of Rome; legend

aureus of Antoninus Pius, 138-161 CE
The obverse of the coin contains a bare-headed portrait bust of the emperor.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005

aureus of Antoninus Pius, 138-161 CE
The obverse of the coin contains a portrait bust of the emperor wearing a laurel-leaf crown.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008

aureus of Antoninus Pius, 157-158 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of the coin contains a portrait bust of the emperor wearing a laurel-leaf crown. The inscription reads ANTONINVS AVG[ustus] PIVS P[ater] P[atriae] IMP[erator] II.
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013

aureus of Antoninus Pius, 157-158 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of the coin contains a portrait bust of the emperor wearing a laurel-leaf crown. The inscription reads ANTONINVS AVG[ustus] PIVS P[ater] P[atriae] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] CO[n]S[ul] III.
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013

sestertius of Antoninus Pius, 140-144 CE
The obverse of the coin contains a portrait bust of the emperor wearing a laurel-leaf crown.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005

copper medallion of Antoninus Pius, mint of Rome, 153 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this small medallion shows three birds, representing the Capitoline triad of Minerva, Jupiter, and Juno. On the left, an owl stands on a shield; in the center, an eagle stands on a thunderbolt; on the right, a peacock with tail spread stands on a scepter. The inscription reads CO[n]S[ul] IIII.
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013

sestertius of Antoninus Pius, c. 144 CE
The reverse of this coin depicts the goddess Salus, standing, holding out a patera to feed a snake coiled around an altar; the inscriptions reads SALVS AVG.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: allegory; personification

sestertius of Antoninus Pius, 140-144 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the god Mars in full armor, standing with a spear in his left hand and balancing a shield with his right. The inscriptions reads MARTI VLTORI ("for Mars the Avenger").
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: Ares

brass sestertius of Antoninus Pius, mint of Rome, 147-148 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of the grain dole (annona) as a standing female wearing stola and palla. In her right hand she holds two ears of wheat, while her left hand supports a ship's anchor; at her feet is a grain measure (modius) with four ears of wheat. The inscription reads ANNONA AVG COS III.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: allegory; personification

brass dupondius of Antoninus Pius, mint of Rome, 140-144 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Hope (Spes) as a diademed female wearing a peplos tunic and short mantle. She strides toward the left, holding a flower in her outstetched right hand and lifting a fold of her tunic with her left hand. The inscription reads SPES P[opuli] R[omani] S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: allegory; personification

brass sestertius of Antoninus Pius, mint of Rome, 140-144 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Italy as a female wearing stola, palla, and mural crown, seated upon a globe, holding a cornucopia in her right hand and a scepter in her left, symbolizing both Italy's abundance and her dominance over the Mediterranean world. The inscription reads TR[ibunicia] POT[estas] CO[n]S[ul] III ITALIA S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: allegory; personification

copper as of Antoninus Pius, mint of Rome, 155 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Britannia as a female with unbound hair sitting dejectedly on a rock with a shield and a vexillum (military flag) at her knees; she rests her head sadly on her right hand. The inscription reads BRITANNIA CO[n]S[ul] IIII S[enatus] C[onsulto].
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: allegory; personification

brass sestertius of Antoninus Pius, mint of Rome, 139 CE;
smaller version; detail: head and torso.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of the city of Alexandria as a female dressed like Isis, wearing a lotus flower on her head; she holds a crown in her outstretched right hand and cradles an ibis with her left. The inscription reads ALEXANDRIA CO[n]S[ul] II S[enatus] C[onsulto]. This is one of a series of coins issued by Antoninus Pius to commemorate his remission of half of the aurum coronarium, a tax levied on provinces at the time of an emperor's accession to power or on anniversaries of his accession.
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: allegory; personification

brass sestertius of Antoninus Pius, mint of Rome, 139 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Phoenicia as a female wearing a mural crown and dressed like a huntress or Amazon with high boots and short tunic that leaves her right breast bare. In her right hand she holds a crown and in her left a spear or scepter with ribbons at the top; her left foot is on top of a shop's prow and behind her stands a palm tree. The inscription reads PHOENICE CO[n]S[ul] II S[enatus] C[onsulto]. This is one of a series of coins issued by Antoninus Pius to commemorate his remission of half of the aurum coronarium, a tax levied on provinces at the time of an emperor's accession to power or on anniversaries of his accession.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: allegory; personification

aureus of Antoninus Pius, 140 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin commemorates the second congiarium (a ceremony during which the emperor distributes coins to the citizens of Rome) of Antoninus Pius. The emperor, wearing a toga, is seated on the sella curulis on a platform. In front of him stands the goddess Liberalitas, who is shown pouring coins from a cornucopia into the outstretched toga of a citizen standing below the platform. The inscription reads LIBERALITAS AVG II.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: money; distribution

aureus of Antoninus Pius, 140-143 CE
This is the obverse of the coin above, which commemorates the second congiarium of Antoninus Pius. The inscription reads ANTONINVS AVG[ustus] PIVS P[ater] P[atriae] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] CO[n]S[ul] III.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: money; distribution

brass dupondius of Antoninus Pius honoring Faustina I, Rome mint, 138-141 CE
The obverse contains a portrait head of Faustina the Elder, wife of the emperor, with her hair elaborately braided, drawn back, and coiled on top of her head, encircled by the inscription FAVSTINA AVG[usta] ANTONINI AVG[usti] PII P[atris] P[atriae]. The reverse depicts the the goddess Concordia standing, holding a patera (libation plate) in her right hand and double cornucopiae in her left, which rests on a column; the inscription reads CONCORDIA AVG[usta].
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: Faustina Maior

brass sestertius of Antoninus Pius, Rome mint, 142 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin celebrates the marital harmony within two generations of the imperial family and uses this as a metaphor for political harmony in the empire. The emperor and his wife, Faustina the Elder, stand facing each other and clasping right hands in the traditional dextrarum iunctio gesture symbolic of marriage. Below their clasped hands stand the smaller figures of their daughter Faustina the Younger and her husband Marcus Aurelius, clasping right hands over an altar. The emperor holds a statuette of the goddess Concordia in his left hand and the empress holds a long scepter; the whole is encircled by the inscription CONCORDIAE S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina Minor

brass sestertius of Antoninus Pius, Rome mint, 140-144 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin celebrates the marital harmony within two generations of the imperial family and uses this as a metaphor for political harmony in the empire. The emperor and his deceased wife, Faustina the Elder, stand facing each other and clasping right hands in the traditional dextrarum iunctio gesture symbolic of marriage. Below their clasped hands stand the smaller figures of their daughter Faustina the Younger and her husband Marcus Aurelius, clasping right hands over an altar. The emperor holds a statuette of the goddess Concordia in his left hand and the empress holds a long scepter; the whole is encircled by the inscription CONCORDIAE S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina Minor

copper coin (as) of Antoninus Pius, Rome mint, 148-149 CE
The obverse contains the head of Antoninus Pius wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts an elephant walking to the right, with MVNIFICENTIA AVG[usti] around and CO[n]S[ul] IIII below. The elephant probably refers to the emperor's munificence in providing exotic animals for the games.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009

brass sestertius of Antoninus Pius, Rome mint, 146 CE
The obverse contains the head of Antoninus Pius wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts a helmeted Minerva advancing right, holding a shield with her left arm and brandishing a javelin with her right, flanked by the letters S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: Athena

brass sestertius of Antoninus Pius, Rome mint, 140-144 CE
The obverse contains the head of Antoninus Pius wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts a vertical winged thunderbolt flanked by the letters S[enatus] C[onsulto], with PROVIDENTIAE DEORVM around, referring to Jupiter's care in preserving the emperor.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: Zeus

gold aureus of Antoninus Pius, mint of Rome, 159-160 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin, shows a female figure personifying Pietas standing between two young girls in long tunics who hold up their right arms. Pietas, wearing a wreath on her head, supports an infant on her left arm and holds a globe in her outstretched right hand. The inscription reads PIETATI AVG[ustae] CO[n]S[ul] IIII.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: imperial symbolism; coin

aureus of Faustina the Elder, mint of Rome, 139 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin, issued during the lifetime of the empress, depicts Juno Regina, queen of the Olympians and member of the Capitoline Tried. The goddess is shown standing, wearing a diadem, holding a scepter in her left hand and a patera in her right, with a peacock at her feet gazing up at her. The inscription reads IVNONI REGINAE.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin

aureus of the deified empress Faustina the Elder, who died in late 140 or early 141 CE;
smaller version.
Faustina was the wife of the emperor Antoninus Pius and mother of Faustina the Younger, wife of Marcus Aurelius.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

aureus of the deified empress Faustina the Elder, who died in late 140 or early 141 CE;
smaller version.
This portrait shows the elaborate hairstyle made popular by Faustina, with many small braids pulled backwards and coiled on the top of her head.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

reverse of an aureus of the deified empress Faustina the Elder, mint of Rome, after 141 CE;
smaller version.
This reverse depicts the goddess Ceres, wearing a diadem under the palla pulled over her head, standing with a long scepter in her left hand and a burning torch in her right, encircled by the inscription AVGVSTA.
Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; deification

aureus of the deified Faustina the Elder, who died in late 140 or early 141 CE.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2007
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

denarius of the deified Faustina (obverse)
Faustina the elder, the wife of the emperor Antoninus Pius, was deified after her death in late 140 or early 141 CE; the inscription reads DIVA AVG(usta) FAVSTINA.
The reverse commemorates their harmonious marriage by showing the emperor, holding a scroll, and the empress, holding a scepter, clasping right hands (dextrarum iunctio); the legend reads CONCORDIAE.
Private collection of Professor Maria Marsilio. Credits: Patrick McIntyre, 2008.
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

consecration aureus for Faustina the Elder, who died in late 140 or early 141 CE.
After the death of his beloved wife, Antoninus Pius issued a remarkable series of coins in her honor. This one depicts her elaborate four-tiered funeral pyre, topped with a four-horse chariot (quadriga).
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

consecration aureus for Faustina the Elder, who died in late 140 or early 141 CE;
In this coin, the deified empress is shown being conveyed to Olympus in a quadriga.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

consecration aureus for Faustina the Elder, mint of Rome, after 140 CE;
smaller version.
This coin reverse depicts a peacock standing on a scepter. As the bird of Juno, the peacock was often associated with the deification of empresses. The legend reads CONSECRATIO.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

consecration quinarius for Faustina the Elder, mint of Rome, after 140 CE;
This gold coin reverse depicts a peacock standing with tail spread. As the bird of Juno, the peacock was often associated with the deification of empresses. The legend reads CONSECRATIO.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

consecration sestertius for Faustina the Elder, mint of Rome, 141 CE;
smaller version.
In this coin reverse, the deified empress, veiled and holding a scepter in her right hand, is shown seated on the back of a winged female (Victoria? Aeternitas?) holding a torch and conveying the deified empress to Olympus. The legend reads CONSECRATIO S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

consecration aureus for Faustina the Elder, who died in late 140 or early 141 CE.
This coin depicts a statue of the deified empress holding a spear and wheat being conveyed in a wagon pulled by two elephants; the inscription reads "by decree of the Senate." The coin imitates a sestertius issued by Tiberius to commemorate the deification of Augustus.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

consecration aureus for Faustina the Elder, who died in late 140 or early 141 CE.
This coin illustrates the temple that Antoninus Pius built along the Sacra Via on the northeastern side of the Roman Forum for the ongoing worship of Diva Faustina. The inscription, AETERNITAS, symbolizes the way this temple will preserve Faustina's name and memory.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2007
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

drawing of the above coin of Faustina's Temple; modern
Credits: T. L. Donaldson, Architectura Numismatica; or, Architectural Medals of Classical Antiquity, no. 4, after p. 12, 1859.
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

consecration aureus for Faustina the Elder, who died in late 140 or early 141 CE;
smaller version.
This coin illustrates the temple that Antoninus Pius built along the Sacra Via on the northeastern side of the Roman Forum for the ongoing worship of Diva Faustina; this coin shows the temple door closed.
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; deification; city of Rome

consecration aureus for Faustina the Elder, who died in late 140 or early 141 CE.
This coin illustrates the temple that Antoninus Pius built along the Sacra Via on the northeastern side of the Roman Forum for the ongoing worship of Diva Faustina.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; coin, deification

denarius of the deified Faustina, mint of Rome, 141-147 CE
The reverse of this coin commemorates the harmonious marriage of Antoninus Pius and Faustina the Elder by showing the emperor, holding a scroll, and the empress, holding a scepter, clasping right hands (dextrarum iunctio); the legend reads CONCORDIAE.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008.
Keywords: Faustina Maior; Faustina I; wedding

aureus of Antoninus Pius honoring Faustina II, mint of Rome, 147-149 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin depicts a youthful Faustina; she wears a diadem over her hair, which is arranged in waves around her face flowing into an elaborately braided bun in the back. The inscription, which includes the title Augusta that she received in 146 when her first child was born, reads FAVSTINAE AVG[ustae] PII AVG[usti] FIL[iae].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: Faustina Minor; Faustina the Younger

aureus of Antoninus Pius honoring Faustina II, mint of Rome, 147-149 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin depicts a youthful Faustina, her hair arranged in waves around her face and an elaborately braided bun in the back. The inscription, which includes the title Augusta that she received in 146 when her first child was born, reads FAVSTINAE AVG[ustae] PII AVG[usti] FIL[iae].
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: Faustina Minor; Faustina the Younger

aureus of Antoninus Pius honoring Marcus Aurelius as Caesar, mint of Rome, 144 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin depicts Marcus Aurelius, who had been adopted by Antoninus Pius and given the title of Caesar, as a beardless, handsome youth with a mop of curls. The inscription reads AVRELIVS CAESAR AVG[ugusti] PII F[ilius] CO[n]S[ul], indicating that it was issued during the first consulship of Marcus.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: succession

aureus of Antoninus Pius celebrating the wedding of Faustina II and Marcus Aurelius, mint of Rome, 145 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin commemorates the wedding of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger. Marcus stands on the right, holding a scroll in his left hand and clasping right hands (dextrarum iunctio) with Faustina, whose bridal wreath (corolla) of flowers and leaves can be seen as a bulge beneath her veil (flammeum). A goddess (Juno or Concordia) stands behind the couple as Pronuba. The inscription reads VOTA PVBLICA; this phrase normally refers to a vow made by the government pledging something for the safety of the state, so Antoninus Pius may be indicating that the marriage of his daughter and his adopted son was a pledge for a harmonious succession.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: Faustina Minor; Faustina the Younger

aureus of Antoninus Pius celebrating the wedding of Faustina II and Marcus Aurelius, mint of Rome, 145 CE;
The reverse of this coin commemorates the wedding of Marcus Aurelius and austina the Younger. Marcus stands on the right, holding a scroll in his left hand and clasping right hands (dextrarum iunctio) with Faustinahte Younger. A goddess (Juno or Concordia) stands behind the couple as Pronuba. The inscription reads VOTA PVBLICA; this phrase normally refers to a vow made by the government pledging something for the safety of the state, so Antoninus Pius may be indicating that the marriage of his daughter and his adopted son was a pledge for a harmonious succession.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: Faustina Minor; Faustina the Younger

aureus of Antoninus Pius honoring Faustina II, mint of Rome, 148-152 CE
smaller version; detail, Venus.
On the reverse of the coin, the goddess Venus Genetrix ("Venus the Mother"), wearing a diadem, stands holding a swaddled infant in her left arm, with her right hand extended holding an apple, probably referring to the golden apple of Eris, goddess of Discord, inscribed "To the most beautiful" that led to the Judgment of Paris awarding the apple to Venus, ultimate cause of the Trojan War.
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: Faustina Minor; Faustina the Younger; Aphrodite

silver denarius of Antoninus Pius honoring Faustina II, Rome mint, 154-156 CE
The obverse contains a portrait head of Antoninus Pius's daughter, Faustina the Younger, with her hair waved and coiled in a chignon, encircled by the inscription FAVSTINA AVG[usta] PII AVG[usti] FIL[ia]. The reverse depicts the seated goddess Concordia, holding a flower in her upraised right hand and resting her left arm on a cornucopia set on a globe, with CONCORDIA around.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: Faustina Minor

brass sestertius of Antoninus Pius, mint of Rome, 140-144 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin commemorates the completion of the Temple of Venus and Rome, the largest temple in the city, which was designed by Hadrian and dedicated by him in 135 CE but apparently not fully completed until 141. The temple had two back-to-back cellae and facades, one dedicated to Venus Felix, and the other, shown on this coin, to Roma Aeterna. The coin shows the temple with the 10 Corinthian columns and statues of Aeternitas as acroteria on each corner, and depicts the helmeted Roma seated on a throne in the cella. the legend reads ROMAE AETERNAE.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: city of Rome; religion

bronze drachm of Antoninus Pius, mint of Alexandria, 148-149 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the great Pharos lighthouse of Alexandria on the right, with the goddess Isis Pharia, wearing the Hathor headdress (solar disk between the horns of a cow), moving towards the lighthouse holding a billowing sail and her sacred rattle (sistrum).
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: Egypt

bronze coin of Antoninus Pius honoring Marcus Aurelius as Caesar, from Bizya in Thrace, 147-161 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin shows a banquet scene with a woman and man on a couch and a small serving boy with an amphora.
New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: leisure, entertainment, dining

brass sestertius of Caligula, mint of Rome, 39-40 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin shows Caligula sacrificing before the Temple of Divus Augustus in the Forum. The emperor has his toga pulled over his head (capite velato) and is pouring a libation over a round altar from a patera in his right hand. In front a victimarius holds the head of a bull about to be sacrificed, while behind stands a camillus wearing a shaggy mantle and holding another patera. The six-columned temple is draped with garlands; its pediment and roof are crowded with sculptures, including a quadriga on the apex and a group of Aeneas, Anchises, and Ascanius on the right corner.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: city of Rome; religion

brass sestertius of Caligula; mint of Rome, 39-41 CE
The reverse shows Caligula standing on a platform in front of a sella curulis; his right hand is raised as he addresses five members of the Praetorian Guard who stand before him in full armor. Four standards with eagles are shown behind the soldiers. The inscription reads ADLOCVT[io] COH[ortium], referring to Praetorian Guard (cohortes praetoriae).
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, military

brass sestertius of Caligula, Rome mint, 39-40 CE
The obverse contains the head of Caligula wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts an oak wreath (corona civica) surrounding the inscription S.P.Q.R P.P OB CIVES SERVATOS. This refers to the "civic crown," originally conferred upon soldiers who had saved the life of a comrade in battle but routinely conferred on emperors after the Senate voted a civic crown to Augustus "for saving all the citizens."
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009

brass sestertius of Caligula, 37-38 CE
smaller version.
This reverse depicts Caligula's three sisters, standing and posed as allegorical goddesses. On the left Agrippina the Younger, as Securitas, holds a cornucopia and leans on a column; she rests her left hand on the shoulder of Drusilla. In the middle Drusilla, as Concordia, holds a cornucopia and patera, and on the right Julia Livilla, as Fortuna, holds a cornucopia and a rudder. The inscription identifies them: AGRIPPINA DRVSILLA IVLIA, with S[enatus] C[onsulto] below.
Tel Aviv, Israel, Eretz Israel Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2014
Keywords: coin, emperor, imperial women

brass sestertius of Caligula, 37-38 CE
smaller version
This reverse depicts Caligula's three sisters, standing and posed as allegorical goddesses: on the left Agrippina the Younger, as Securitas, holds a cornucopia and leans on a column; in the middle Drusilla, as Concordia, holds a cornucopia and patera; and on the right Julia Livilla, as Fortuna, holds a cornucopia and a rudder. The inscription identifies them: AGRIPPINA DRVSILLA IVLIA, with S[enatus] C[onsulto] below.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin, emperor, imperial women

gold aureus of Caligula, mint of Lyons, 37 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse shows a portrait of Caligula's mother, Agrippina the Elder. The legend reads AGRIPPINA MAT[er] C[ai] CAES[aris] AVG[usti] GERM[anici].
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: coin; imperial women; Agrippina Maior

silver denarius of Caligula, mint of Lyons, 37-38 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse shows a portrait of Caligula's mother, Agrippina the Elder. The legend reads AGRIPPINA MAT[er] C[ai] CAES[aris] AVG[usti] GERM[anici].
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: coin; imperial women; Agrippina Maior

brass sestertius of Caligula, mint of Rome, 37-41 CE
smaller version.
This obverse shows a portrait head of Caligula's mother, Agrippina the Elder. The legend reads AGRIPPINA M[arci] F[ilia] MAT[er] C[ai] CAESARIS AVGVSTI (see below for the reverse of this coin).
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin, imperial women; Agrippina Maior

brass sestertius of Caligula, mint of Rome, 37-38 CE
smaller version.
This obverse shows a portrait head of Caligula's mother, Agrippina the Elder. The legend reads AGRIPPINA M[arci] F[ilia] MAT[er] C[ai] CAESARIS AVGVSTI (see below for the reverse of this coin).
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: coin, imperial women; Agrippina Maior

brass sestertius of Caligula, mint of Rome, 37-41 CE
smaller version.
This obverse shows a portrait head of Caligula's mother, Agrippina the Elder. The legend reads AGRIPPINA M[arci] F[ilia] MAT[er] C[ai] CAESARIS AVGVSTI (see below for the reverse of this coin).
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, imperial women; Agrippina Maior

brass sestertius of Caligula, mint of Rome, 37-41 CE
smaller version.
This reverse, honoring Caligula's mother, Agrippina the Elder, depicts a beautifully decorated carpentum drawn by two mules. The legend reads S[enatus] P[opulus]Q[ue] R[omanus] MEMORIAE AGRIPPINAE (see above for three issues of the obverse of this coin).
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin, imperial women; Agrippina Maior

brass sestertius of Caligula, mint of Rome, 37-41 CE
The obverse of this coin (smaller version), contains a portrait of Caligula's mother, Agrippina the Elder, with the legend AGRIPPINA M[arci] F[ilia] MAT[er] C[ai] CAESARIS AVGVSTI.
The reverse (smaller version), depicts a beautifully decorated carpentum drawn by two mules. The legend reads S[enatus] P[opulus]Q[ue] R[omanus] MEMORIAE AGRIPPINAE.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Ann Raia, 2012
Keywords: coin, imperial women; Agrippina Maior

silver coin of Crete, 37-41 CE;
shows the Roman emperor Caligula with a sceptre that likens him to the Cretan god Dictaean Zeus.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001

brass dupondius of Caligula, mint of Rome, 37-41 CE
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin, issued to commemorate Caligula's father, shows Germanicus riding in a triumphal chariot at the conclusion of his successful campaigns in Germany.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: triumph, military

brass dupondius of Caligula, mint of Rome, 37-41 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of the above coin shows Germanicus holding a legionary eagle; the inscription refers to the fact that Germanicus recovered two of the three legionary eagle standards lost to the Germans in the battle of Teutoburg Forest.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: military

brass sestertius of Caracalla, mint of Rome, 213 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin commemorates Caracalla's restoration of the Circus Maximus, showing the triumphal arches, central barrier (spina) with obelisk, turning posts (metae) and emperor's box (pulvinar).
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: sport chariot racing

bronze coin of Caracalla, 198-217 CE
shows three temples (dedicated to Tiberius, the goddess Roma, and Hadrian) at Smyrna, Asia.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: religion

aureus of Caracalla, 215 CE
On the reverse, Jupiter sits on a throne holding a scepter and winged Victory, with an eagle at his feet; the pose evokes the famous cult statue in the Temple of Zeus at Olympia, sculpted by Pheidias.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: coin

aureus of Caracalla, mint of Rome, 215 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the syncretic god Serapis, wearing tunic and mantle, holding a scepter in his left hand and extending his right hand in greeting; he wears a modius (grain measure) on his head. The inscription gives Caracalla's titles.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: Egyptian deity

brass sestertius of Caracalla, mint of Rome, 215 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts Luna, goddess of the moon (also known as Selene or Diana) driving a chariot (biga) pulled by bulls across the night sky. A crescent moon appears above her head. The inscription gives Caracalla's titles.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: personification

gold aureus of Caracalla, mint of Rome, 215 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin shows Caracalla, in military armor, standing before an altar sacrificing to Aesculapius, the god of healing, who appears before his temple holding a staff entwined with a snake; a boy attendant stands behind the god. Behind the emperor stands a man in a toga holding a scepter, while a military flag (vexillum) appears in the background. This coin commemorates Caracalla's visit to the sanctuary of Asclepius in Pergamon in an attempt to regain his health.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: religion; cult; medicine

brass coin of Caracalla, 198-217 CE, minted at Perinth, Thrace
A city goddess wearing a mural crown stands next to a flaming altar; she holds a temple in each hand.
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: religion

bronze coin of Caracalla and Plautilla, minted at Stratonikeia, Caria, c. 202-205
Busts of the emperor Caracalla and his wife Plautilla face each other (the marriage only lasted three years). Between them is a round countermark with a small head intended to represent the reigning emperor; this would certify that the provincial coin could be used as legal tender by the legions stationed in that area.
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006

bronze coin of Caracalla, minted at Stratonikeia, Caria, c. 198-211
The coin originally held facing busts of Caracalla and his brother Geta, but the portrait of Geta has been scraped off due to the official damnatio memoriae (a decree to remove all images of the person) issued by the emperor Caracalla after he had assassinated his brother in 211 BCE. There is a small countermark at the bottom of the coin.
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: imperial family

bronze coin of Otrus in Phrygia, 200-212 CE
The reverse depicts Aeneas holding Ascanius by the hand and carrying Anchises with the Penates, in imitation of the sculptural group in the Forum of Augustus. The coin bears an oval countermark with a tiny head intended to represent the reigning emperor; this would certify that the provincial coin could be used as legal tender by the legions stationed in that area.
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: Vergil, Aeneid, mythology

brass dupondius of Claudius, 41-50 CE
close-up of Livia
The reverse depicts Livia, who had been deified by her grandson Claudius in 42 CE, as the goddess Ceres, seated on a throne, holding ears of grain and a torch. The inscription reads DIVA AUGUSTA.
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: empress, deification

silver denarius of Claudius, mint of Lyons, 46-47 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse shows the personification of Constantia as a draped female seated on the folding curule chair (sella curulis) holding her right hand toward her face and with her feet on a cushion; the legend reads CONSTANTIAE AVGVSTI. The hairstyle and pose of Constantia strongly suggest Livia, whom Claudius had deified in 42 CE.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

copper as of Claudius, mint of Rome, 41-42 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse shows the personification of Constantia as a standing helmeted female with right hand raised and left hand hold a spear. The legend reads CONSTANTIAE AVGVSTI.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

gold aureus of Claudius, mint of Lyons, 41-42 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse shows the personification of Pax (including also attributes of Nemesis) as a winged female lifting up a fold of her mantle with her right hand (in a gesture similar to images of Pudicitia) and pointing toward a snake at her feet with a caduceus in her left hand. The legend reads PACI AVGVSTAE.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

sestertius of Claudius, mint of Rome, c. 42 CE
The reverse honors Claudius's father Nero Claudius Drusus, brother of Tiberius. It depicts an elaborate triumphal arch with four Ionic columns and a pediment, surmounted by an equestrian statue of Drusus on a rearing horse thrusting his spear between two trophies. The legend reads NERO CLAVDIVS DRVSVS GERMANIC[us] IMP[erator] S[enatus] C[onsulto]. The arch probably represents the arcus Drusi on the Via Appia, erected by the Senate sometime after the death of Drusus in 9 BCE to commemorate his victories over the Germans.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Ann Raia, 2012
Keywords: coin; city of Rome

sestertius of Claudius, mint of Rome, c. 42 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse honors Claudius's father Nero Claudius Drusus, brother of Tiberius. It depicts an elaborate triumphal arch with four Ionic columns and a pediment, surmounted by an equestrian statue of Drusus on a rearing horse thrusting his spear between two trophies. The legend reads NERO CLAVDIVS DRVSVS GERMANIC[us] IMP[erator] S[enatus] C[onsulto]. The arch probably represents the arcus Drusi on the Via Appia, erected by the Senate sometime after the death of Drusus in 9 BCE to commemorate his victories over the Germans.
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: coin; city of Rome

copper coin (as) of Claudius, mint of Rome, 41-54 CE
The obverse has a portrait of Claudius, bare headed, with the legend TI[berius] CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG[ustus] P[ontifex] M[aximus] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] IMP[erator] P[ater] P[atriae].
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: coin

aureus of Claudius, 49-50 CE
smaller version.
Portrait of Claudius wearing a laurel wreath; inscription reads TI[berius] CLAVD[ius] CAESAR AVG[ustus] P[ontifex] M[aximus] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] VIIII IMP[erator] XVI.
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: coin, emperor

brass sestertius of Claudius wearing laurel wreath, 42 CE
from mint of Rome
Boston, Museum of Fine Arts. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2002
Keywords: coin, emperor

aureus of Claudius, mint of Lyons, 51 CE
smaller version.
Reverse depicts the head of Claudius's wife, Agrippina the Younger, wearing a wreath of wheat, evoking the goddess Ceres.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: coin, empress, Agrippina Minor

aureus of Claudius, 50-54 CE
smaller version. Reverse depicts the head of Claudius's wife, Agrippina the Younger, wearing a wreath of wheat.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin, empress, Agrippina Minor

denarius of Claudius, 50-54 CE
Reverse depicts the head of Claudius's wife, Agrippina the Younger, wearing a wreath. Inscription reads AGRIPPINAE AUGUSTAE
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, empress, Agrippina Minor

aureus of Claudius honoring Antonia Augusta, mint of Lyons, 41-42 CE
The obverse of this coin contains a portrait of Claudius' mother, Antonia, younger daughter of Mark Antony and wife of Drusus the Elder. Antonia wears a wreath of wheat, evoking the goddess Ceres. The inscription reads ANTONIA AVGVSTA, a title conferred upon her by her grandson Caligula and again by her son Claudius.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: coin, Antonia Minor

dupondius of Claudius honoring Antonia Augusta, mint of Rome, 41-42 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin contains a portrait of Claudius' mother, Antonia. The inscription reads ANTONIA AVGVSTA, a title conferred upon her by her grandson Caligula and again by her son Claudius.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: coin, Antonia Minor

dupondius of Claudius honoring Antonia Augusta, mint of Rome, 41-42 CE
Another issue of the above coin. The obverse of this coin contains a portrait of Claudius' mother, Antonia, younger daughter of Mark Antony and wife of Drusus the Elder. The inscription reads ANTONIA AVGVSTA, a title conferred upon her by her grandson Caligula and again by her son Claudius.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, Antonia Minor

dupondius of Claudius honoring Antonia Augusta, mint of Rome, 41-42 CE
The obverse of this coin contains a portrait of Claudius' mother, Antonia, younger daughter of Mark Antony and wife of Drusus the Elder. The inscription reads ANTONIA AVGVSTA, a title conferred upon her by her grandson Caligula and again by her son Claudius.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Ann Raia, 2012
Keywords: coin, Antonia Minor

gold aureus of Claudius, mint of Lyons, 41-42 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse shows Claudius wearing a toga clasping right hands in the gesture of concord and fidelity with a uniformed member of the Praetorian Guard, a standard-bearer with animal skin headdress; the legend reads PRAETOR[ianus] RECEPT[us](or PRAETOR[iani] RECEPT[i]) referring to Claudius's special relationship with the Praetorians, who had ensured his accession to the throne.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

silver cistophorus of Claudius, mint of Ephesus, 41-42 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the Temple of Rome and Augustus in Pergamon; the inscription on the architrave reads ROM[a] ET AVG[ustus], with the words COM[mune] ASI[ae] on either side of the temple. Within the temple a goddess holding a cornucopia is placing a crown or wreath on the head of Claudius, shown in military dress.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

gold coin of Claudius, mint of Lyons, 44-45 CE
larger version. Coin depicts the Praetorian Camp (castra praetoria) in Rome, including standards and a member of the Praetorian Guardthe legend reads IMPER[ator] RECEPT[us], referring to the fact that Claudius spent the first night of his reign in the Praetorian Camp.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: aureus, military

drawing of Praetorian Camp on gold coin of Claudius
Credits: J. Henry Middleton, The Remains of Ancient Rome. Vol. II, fig. 88, p. 234, 1892
Keywords: military; Castra Praetoria; city of Rome

brass coin of Commodus, 180-192 CE
The emperor is depicted wearing the lion-skin helmet of Hercules, the god that he claimed to embody.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin, emperor

aureus of Commodus, mint of Rome, 178 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts Castor, one of the Dioscuri (the celestial twins thought to be protectors of Rome). Naked except for a cloak on his shoulders and a traveler's hat, he holds a spear in his left hand and rests his right hand on the neck of his horse. The inscription gives the emperor's titles.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: Pollux; horseman

brass sestertius of Commodus, mint of Rome, 192 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts an imperial distribution of cash to citizens (congiarium). The emperor is seated on a sella curulis on a platform, while a Praetorian guardsman stands behind him. in front stands the goddess Liberalitas holding a cornucopia and abacus; a togate citizen ascends a ladder to receive his coins.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: largesse; imperial symbolism

brass sestertius of Commodus, mint of Rome, 192 CE
smaller version.
On the reverse of this coin, a female figure dressed in stola and palla with a wreath in her hair leans on a military standard with her left arm and clasps right hands with a male figure in general's armor holding a spear. The figures have been variously identified as Mars and Fortuna or Roma and Fides. A star appears between the two figures.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial symbolism

gold aureus of Commodus, mint of Rome, 181 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of the coin depicts the personification of Securitas Publica; the goddess is seated on a throne, holding a scepter in her outstretched right hand and resting her left hand on the back of her head. The inscription reads SECVRITAS PVBLICA TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] VI IMP[erator] IIII CO[n]S[ul] III P[ater] P[atriae].
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

base silver (billon) tetradrachm of Alexandria, issued by Commodus, c. 188-189 CE
smaller version. The reverse of the coin depicts the Pharos (the great lighthouse in the port of Alexandria) and a ship that is presumably carrying Egyptian grain to Rome.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: grain dole; annona

gold medallion of Constantine I, 320 CE
depicts a personification of the Senate holding a globe and scepter.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

argentiferous (silvered) nummus of Constantine I, mint of Trier, 324-325 CE;
smaller version.
The coin depicts Constantine's wife, Flavia Maxima Fausta, a year after she was proclaimed Augusta. The empress stands and holds her two sons,the future emperors Constantine II and Constantius II. The boys are shown as infants although they were 8 and 7 at the time the coin was minted. The inscription, SPES REI PVBLICAE ("the hope of the state") refers to the role of the empress as guarantor of legitimate successors; her fertility is emphasized by the placement of the infants, suggesting breasts and a womb.
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013.
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

gold solidus of Constantine I, mint of Ticinum, 324-325 CE;
smaller version.
The coin contains a portrait of Constantine's wife, Flavia Maxima Fausta, a year after she was proclaimed Augusta. The empress is shown with wavy hair pulled into a chignon at the base of her neck; she wears a necklace of beads or pearls. The inscription reads FLAV[ia] MAX[ima] FAVSTA AVG[usta].
New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: empress

gold solidus of Constantine I, mint of Ticinum, 324-325 CE;
The coin contains a portrait of Constantine's wife, Flavia Maxima Fausta, a year after she was proclaimed Augusta. The empress is shown with wavy hair pulled into a chignon at the base of her neck. The inscription reads FLAV[ia] MAX[ima] FAVSTA AVG[usta].
Berlin, AltesMuseum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: empress

gold solidus of Constantine I, 324 CE;
smaller version.
The coin contains a portrait of Constantine's mother, Flavia Julia Helena, wife of the emperor Constantius Chlorus and mother of Constantine the Great, a year after she was given the title Augusta. She wears a diadem and necklace. The inscription reads FL[avia] HELENA AVGVSTA.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: imperial women; empress

gold donative medallion of Constantine II, 337-61 CE
depicts the emperor's war against the Persians.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin

brass medallion of Diocletian, mint of Rome, c. 294 CE
smaller version. The reverse of this medallion depicts the three Monetae, personficiations of the three meals used in coinage (gold, silver, brass/copper). Each figure wears a wreath in her hair and carries a cornucopia, signifying abundance, and holds in her right hand a trutina, the small scale used for weighing coins. At their feet are piles of coins. The legend reads MONETAE AVGG.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: Moneta; money; personification

aureus of Domitian honoring Domitilla, mint of Rome, 82-83 CE
The obverse of this coin has a portrait of Divus Vespasianus, the deified father of Domitian. The reverse, shown here, bears a portrait identified as DIVA DOMITILLA AVGVSTA, most likely referring to Vespasian's wife, the mother of Domitian, although Domitian also had a sister of that name. Both Domitilla's died before Vespasian became emperor, and one of them, probably Vespasian's deceased wife, was deified by Domitan.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: deification; imperial women

aureus of Domitian honoring Domitia, mint of Rome, 88-89 CE
smaller version.
The obverse has a portrait of Domitia Longina, wife of the emperor Domitian; the inscription reads DOMITIA AVG[ugusta] IMP[erator] DOMITIAN[us] AVG[ustus] GERM[anicus].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: coin, empress

aureus of Domitian honoring Domitia, mint of Rome, 88-89 CE
smaller version.
The obverse has a portrait of Domitia Longina, wife of the emperor Domitian; the inscription reads DOMITIA AVG[ugusta] IMP[erator] DOMITIAN[us] AVG[ustus] GERM[anicus].
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: coin, empress

aureus of Domitian, mint of Rome, 92-94 CE
Obverse has portrait of a bare-headed Domitian with inscription DOMITIANVS AVGVSTVS.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, emperor

denarius of Domitian, mint of Rome, 85 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the goddess Minerva standing on a column adorned with ship's beaks (columna rostrata). The goddess wears a helmet and aegis; she brandishes a spear in her right hand and holds out a shield with her left. At her feet stands an owl. The inscription reads, IMP[erator] VIIII CO[n]S[ul] XI CENS[oria] POT[estate] P[ater] P[atriae].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: Athena

brass coin of Domitian depicting an equestrian statue of Domitian: 95-96 CE
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: emperor

brass coin of Domitian, issued to celebrate his German campaign from 85-89 CE;
depicts Domitian on horseback riding down a German warrior.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: emperor, military

brass coin of Domitian, issued to celebrate his German campaign from 85-89 CE;
depicts Domitian receiving a shield from a kneeling German.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: emperor, military

denarius of Domitian, mint of Rome, 88 CE;
smaller version.
This is one of a series of coins issued to commemorate Domitian's celebration of the Secular Games; the reverse depicts the herald of the games, holding a shield and a staff, standing before a cippus whose inscription reads LVD[i] SAEC[ulares] FEC[it].
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, festival, religion

sestertius of Domitian, mint of Rome, 88 CE;
smaller version.
This is one of a series of coins issued to commemorate Domitian's celebration of the Secular Games; the reverse depicts the seated emperor receiving fruges (wheat, oats, beans) from the Roman people.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, festival, religion; Horace, Carmen Saeculare

sestertius of Domitian, mint of Rome, 88 CE;
smaller version.
This is one of a series of coins issued to commemorate Domitian's celebration of the Secular Games; the reverse depicts the togate emperor sitting on a low platform with the inscription FRVG[es] AC[cepit], receiving fruges (wheat, oats, beans) from two togate citizens standing before him, the foremost of whom is pouring out fruits and vegetables from a sack. In the background is a temple with four columns.The legend reads CO[n]S[ul] XIIII LVD[is] SAEC[ularibus] A POP[ulo] S[enatus] C[onsulto].
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, festival, religion; Horace, Carmen Saeculare

sestertius of Domitian, mint of Rome, 88 CE;
smaller version.
This is one of a series of coins issued to commemorate Domitian's celebration of the Secular Games; the reverse depicts the emperor standing before a tetrastyle temple and dictating to the Roman matrons a prayer to the goddess Juno.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, festival, religion; Horace, Carmen Saeculare

sestertius of Domitian, mint of Rome, 88 CE;
smaller version.
This is one of a series of coins issued to commemorate Domitian's celebration of the Secular Games; the reverse depicts the emperor with a choral procession of boys and girls in honor of the gods Apollo and Diana.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, festival, religion; Horace, Carmen Saeculare

sestertius of Domitian, mint of Rome, 88 CE;
This is one of a series of coins issued to commemorate Domitian's celebration of the Secular Games; the reverse depicts the sacrifice of a black sow to the goddess of the earth.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: coin, festival, religion; Horace, Carmen Saeculare

dupondius of Domitian, mint of Rome, 88 CE;
smaller version.
This is one of a series of coins issued to commemorate Domitian's celebration of the Secular Games; the reverse depicts the emperor holding a patera over a garlanded altar; two flute players stand before the altar. The Temple of Capitoline Jupiter is seen in the background.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, festival, religion; Horace, Carmen Saeculare

copper coin (as) of Domitian, Rome mint, 85 CE
The obverse contains the head of Domitian wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts an altar enclosure with paneled doors with animal-head pulls, flanked by the letters S[enatus] C[onsulto], with SALVTI above and AVGVSTI below. Nothing further is known about an Altar for the Health/Safety of the Emperor.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009

brass sestertius of Domitian, Rome mint, 90-91 CE
The obverse contains the head of Domitian wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts Jupiter seated on a backless throne, holding a small Victory in his right hand and a scepter in his left; the inscription reads IOVI VICTORI ("to Jupiter the Victor").
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: Zeus

aureus of Septimius Severus, 193-96 CE
The obverse of this coin depicts his wife Julia Domna with her title Augusta; inscription reads IVLIA DOMNA AVG[usta].
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2003
Keywords: coin, empress, hairstyle

aureus of Septimius Severus, 193-96 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin depicts his wife Julia Domna with her title Augusta; inscription reads IVLIA DOMNA AVG[usta].
New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2007
Keywords: coin, empress, hairstyle

gold aureus of Julia Domna, 194-211 CE
Obverse of the coin depicts Julia Domna with her characteristic hairstyle; inscription reads IVLIA AVGVSTA.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: empress

aureus of Septimius Severus, c. 202 CE
The reverse depicts his wife Julia Domna, facing front, flanked by her two sons: the elder, Caracalla, on the left wearing a laurel crown, and the younger, Geta, on the right. The legend reads FELICITAS SAECVLI, "happiness (or fertility, abundance) of the age."
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, empress, hairstyle

brass coin of Julia Domna, minted in Aphrodisias, beginning third century CE
The coin depicts the illicit lovers Aphrodite and Ares caught in the net of Aphrodite's husband Hephaestus (a famous story told in Homer's Iliad).
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: mythology; Venus; Mars; Vulcan

denarius of Julia Domna, 207-209 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of the coin has a portrait of the empress with the inscription IVLIA AVGVSTA; the reverse, shown here, depicts a personification of Pudicitia, the female virtue of modesty. The goddess is seated; her left hand holds a scepter, and her right hand modestly covers her breast.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, chastity

silver denarius of Julia Domna, issued by Septimius Severus, mint of Rome, 207 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of the earth (Terra, Tellus) reclining beneath a tree. The goddess leans her left arm on a basket of fruit, while her outstretched right hand rests on a globe. Behind her stand four children, representing the seasons. The legend reads FECVNDITAS. Coins with this motif may have been intended to celebrate the Secular Games held by Severus in 204 CE.
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: empress; allegory; imperial symbolism

silver denarius of Julia Domna, issued by Septimius Severus, mint of Rome, 203 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts Pietas standing besides a small flaming altar; the goddess is draped and veiled, with both hands raised in gesture of prayer (orans). The legend reads PIETAS PVBLICA.
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: empress; allegory; imperial symbolism

brass sestertius of Julia Domna, issued by Septimius Severus, mint of Rome, 207 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the goddess Fortuna seated on a throne, resting her left hand on a rudder and extending a cornucopia with her right hand toward a small boy standing at her feet. To the left of the throne s small statue stands on a tall pedestal. The legend reads FORTVNAE FELICI S[enatus] C[onsulto].
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: empress; allegory; imperial symbolism

aureus of Julia Domna, issued by Caracalla, mint of Rome, 211 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the empress Julia Domna, standing and holding a scepter in her left hand and extending a branch with her right. The inscription lists her extraordinary titles, MAT[er] AVGG (Augustorum) MAT[er] SEN[atus] M[ater] PATR[iae], "Mother of the Emperors, Mother of the Senate, Mother of the Fatherland." The first title indicates that the coin was issued before the murder of her son Geta in December 211, and the second two titles were apparently conferred upon her after the death of Severus in February 211.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: empress; allegory; imperial symbolism

silver denarius of Julia Domna, issued by Caracalla, mint of Rome, 211 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the empress Julia Domna as Pax, seated on a throne and holding a scepter in her left hand and extending an olive branch with her right. The inscription lists her extraordinary titles, MAT[er] AVGG (Augustorum) MAT[er] SEN[atus] M[ater] PATR[iae], "Mother of the Emperors, Mother of the Senate, Mother of the Fatherland." The first title indicates that the coin was issued before the murder of her son Geta in December 211, and the second two titles were apparently conferred upon her after the death of Severus in February 211.
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: empress; allegory; imperial symbolism

silver denarius of Julia Domna, issued by Caracalla, mint of Rome, 216 CE
The obverse of the coin has a portrait of Julia Domna, mother of Caracalla, with the inscription IVLIA PIA FELIX AVG[usta]. The reverse depicts the goddess Venus Genetrix seated upon a throne, with her right hand outstretched and her left holding a scepter; the inscription reads VENVS GENETRIX.
Private Collection, gift of the Classical Association of the Atlantic States to Barbara F. McManus. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2011

brass sestertius of Julia Maesa, issued by Elagabalus, mint of Rome, 218-220 CE
This coin portrays Julia Maesa, a member of the Severan imperial family (older sister of empress Julia Domna and mother of Julia Soaemias and Julia Mamaea). She wears a diadem over hair pulled back into a braided bun. The inscription reads IVLIA MAESA AVGVSTA, indicating the title conferred on her by her grandson Elagalabus after she was instrumental in overthrowing Macrinus and placing him on the throne.
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial women

brass medallion of Julia Mamaea, 224-235 CE
smaller version.
The medallion portrays Julia Mamaea, a member of the Severan imperial family (niece of empress Julia Domna, daughter of Julia Maesa, and mother of the emperor Severus Alexander), seated before two military standards, with a cornucopia by her side; a smaller female attendant stands before her. The inscription reads MATER AVGVSTI ET CASTRORVM ("mother of the Augustus and of the military camps"); she had been given this military title in 224 CE since she accompanied her son on his campaigns. In fact, Severus Alexander had named her consors imperii ("partner in rule"), an honor never before conferred on a woman.
Berlin, Museum for Prehistory and Early History. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: imperial women

aureus of Julia Mamaea, mint of Rome, 222 CE
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin contains a bare-headed portrait of Julia Mamaea, a member of the Severan imperial family (niece of empress Julia Domna, daughter of Julia Maesa, and mother of the emperor Severus Alexander) with her characteristic crimped hairstyle. The inscription reads IVLIA MAMAEA AVG[usta].
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: imperial women

brass sestertius of Severus Alexander, mint of Rome, 224 CE
smaller version.
The obverse of the coin contains a portrait of the emperor's mother, Julia Mamaea, wearing a diadem. The inscription reads IVLIA MAMAEA AVGVSTA.
New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2007
Keywords: imperial women

brass medallion of Severus Alexander, 231 CE
smaller version.
The obverse of the medallion contains facing portraits of Alexander and his mother Julia Mamaea. He wears a laurel wreath and she wears a diadem on her characteristic crimped hairstyle. The inscription reads IMP[erator] SEV[erus] ALEXANDER AVG[ustus] IVLIA MAMAEA AVG[usta] MATER AVG[usti].
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial women; imperial symbolism

brass sestertius of Severus Alexander, mint of Rome, 225 CE
smaller version.
The obverse of the coin contains a portrait of Sallustia Orbiana, married to the 17-year-old Severus Alexander in 225 CE. The reverse, shown here, depicts the couple clasping right hands (dextrarum junctio) in the gesture symbolic of marriage. The inscription reads CONCORDIA AVGVSTORVM S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial women; imperial symbolism

bronze coin of Elagabalus from Tarsus, Cilicia, 218-222 CE;
smaller version.
This coin shows the crown of a priest of the imperial cult with seven busts of emperors; it is fastened with long ties that would lay on the priest's neck.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: religion; priesthood

bronze coin of Elagabalus, minted in Tyre, 218-222 CE
Dido, queen of Carthage, is shown supervising the building of her city.
New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: Vergil, Aeneid, mythology

bronze coin of city of Ephesus, reign of Maximus, 235-38 CE
shows the Temple of Artemis Ephesus.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: religion

aureus of Galba, mint of Rome, 68 CE
Obverse contains a portrait of Galba wearing a laurel-leaf crown encircled by the inscription IMP[erator] SER[vius] GALBA CAESAR AVG[ustus] P[ontifex] M[aximus].
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: emperor, coin

sestertius of Galba, mint of Rome, December, 68 CE
The reverse depicts Galba seated on a throne wearing a laurel leaf crown and military garb and holding a sheathed sword. He stretches out his right hand to the city goddess of Clunia standing before him; she holds a cornucopia and offers the Palladium (the Trojan statue of Pallas Athena, here representing the Roman state) to Galba. This coin commemorates the fact that after Nero's suicide Galba was proclaimed emperor in the city of Clunia in Hispania Tarraconensis, where he had taken refuge after the failure of the rebellion of Vindex in Gaul.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: emperor, history

brass sestertius of Galba, mint of Rome, 68 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse depicts the allegorical personifications of Honos (Honor) and Virtus (Valor) facing each other. Honos is shown as a beardless male holding a cornucopia and scepter, while Virtus is an armored goddess holding a spear and sword in scabbard. These figures symbolically represent the public honor and offices that come to a man through military valor.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: emperor, coin

sestertius of Galba, October, 68 CE;
smaller version.
Reverse shows a seated goddess holding an olive branch in her right hand and a scepter in her left. The pose is very similar to coins depicting Livia as Pax, and the inscription, CONCORD(ia) AVG(usta) strengthens the association.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: empress; allegory; personification

copper coin (as) of Galba, summer, 68 CE;
smaller version.
Reverse shows a standing goddess holding a scepter and the cap of liberty (pileus). The inscription, LIBERTAS PVBLICA, may suggest that Galba has liberated the state from the oppression of Nero.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: allegory; personification

gold solidus of Galla Placidia, 422 CE
The obverse of this coin contains a portrait of Aelia Galla Placidia, daughter of emperor Theodosius I, wife of western emperor Constantius III, and mother of western emperor Valentinian III, for whom she served as regent of the western empire from 425-437. She is shown wearing many jewels, including a pearl diadem, with a Chi-Rho on her shoulder and the hand of God holding a crown above her head. The inscription reads D[omina] N[ostra] GALLA PLACIDIA P[ia] F[elix] AVG[usta].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: empress

brass sestertius of Gordian III, mint of Rome, 238-239 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Abundantia holding a cornucopia with both hands and pouring out its contents (possibly coins?); the inscription reads ABUNDANTIA AVG[usti] or AVG[usta].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: allegory; imperial symbolism

brass sestertius of Gordian III, mint of Rome, 238-239 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Pax (Peace) as a draped, diademmed female holding an olive branch in her outstretched right hand and a scepter on her left shoulder; the inscription reads PAX AVG[usti] S[enasus] C[onsulto].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: allegory; imperial symbolism

brass medallion of Gordian III, c. 240 CE
shows the Colosseum, Colossus, Meta Sudans, and entrance to the baths of Titus.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: arena; gladiators; sports; city of Rome; coin

drawing of Gordian's Colosseum medallion
smaller version of drawing; drawing with labels
Credits: J. Henry Middleton, The Remains of Ancient Rome. Vol. II. (1892) fig. 58, p. 81
Keywords: arena; gladiators; sports; city of Rome; coin

brass medallion of Gordian III, 238-44 CE
shows the Circus Maximus, with the emperor as victor in six-horse chariot, and gladiators and wrestlers fighting in front of spina.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: sports; city of Rome; coin

brass sestertius of Hadrian, minted in Rome 121 CE
shows the Genius of the Circus holding a chariot wheel.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin; sports

aureus issued by Hadrian, Rome mint, 118 CE
smaller version.
This coin commemorates the deified Trajan. The reverse shows a phoenix with a radiate nimbus (a kind of halo signifying divinity) standing on a branch. As a mythic bird associated with the sun that could spontaneously combust and be reborn from its own ashes, the phoenix was an appropriate symbol for immortality.
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: deification, Divus Traianus

aureus issued by Hadrian, mint of Rome, 117-118 CE;
smaller version.
This coin commemorates Hadrian's adoptive parents, Trajan and Plotina; the obverse contains a portrait of the deified Trajan, and the reverse, shown here, contains the portrait of Plotina, who had strongly urged the dying Trajan to adopt Hadrian in 117 CE and thus secure his succession to the throne. The empress wears a diadem behind her upswept hair; the back is braided and tied at her neck. The inscription reads PLOTINAE AVG[ustae] ("for Plotina Augusta").
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin, empress

aureus issued by Hadrian, mint of Rome, 117-118 CE;
smaller version.
This coin commemorates Hadrian's adoptive parents, Trajan and Plotina; the obverse contains a portrait of the deified Trajan, and the reverse, shown here, contains the portrait of Plotina, who had strongly urged the dying Trajan to adopt Hadrian in 117 CE and thus secure his succession to the throne. The empress wears a diadem behind her upswept hair; the back is braided and tied at her neck. The inscription reads PLOTINAE AVG[ustae] ("for Plotina Augusta").
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin, empress

aureus issued by Hadrian, mint of Rome, 118 CE;
smaller version.
Thhe obverse of this coin contains a portrait of Trajan's wife Plotina, who had helpted Hadrian secure the throne after the death of Trajan in 117 CE. The empress wears a diadem behind her upswept hair; the back is braided and tied at her neck. The inscription reads PLOTINA AVG[usti] DIVI.
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: coin, empress

aureus with portraits of Trajan and Plotina issued late in the reign of Hadrian or immediately after his death
The reverse of the coin commemorates his adoptive parents, the deceased Trajan (died 117 CE) and Plotina (died c. 123 CE), whose facing portraits are surmounted by stars indicating divinity. The legend reads DIVIS PARENTIBVS ("for his deified parents").
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin, empress

brass sestertius of Hadrian, minted in Rome 132-34 CE
Reverse depicts a Roman warship, with 5 rowers, a helmsman sitting beneath an arch and a wing-shaped stern ornament, a prow with eye decoration and rostrum (metal ramming beak), and a mast and sail. The inscription reads FELICITATI AVG[usti].
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin; military; ship; seafaring; galley; quinquereme

brass sestertius of Hadrian, minted in Rome 117-138 CE
Obverse show a portrait of Hadrian in military garb with the legend HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS. Reverse depicts a Roman warship; this detail shows two levels of rowers and a helmsman seated beneath a large wing-shaped stern ornament with a legionary eagle and a military standard.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin; military; ship; seafaring; galley

brass sestertius of Hadrian, 118 CE
The reverse of the coin depicts an imperial distribution of cash to citizens (congiarium). The emperor is seated on a sella curulis on a platform guarded by a soldier on the ground behind him, while an attendant pours coins into the toga held open by a man on a ladder; the goddess Liberalitas stands behind the attendant holding up an abacus.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: largesse; imperial symbolism

brass sestertius of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 125-128 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of the coin depicts an imperial distribution of cash to citizens (congiarium). The emperor is seated on a sella curulis on a platform, holding out his right hand. Next to him stands the goddess Liberalitas, pouring coins into the outstretched toga of a citizen on a ladder. The inscription reads CO[n]S[ul] III S[enatus] C[onsulto] LIBERALITAS AVG[usti] IIII.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: largesse; imperial symbolism

denarius of Hadrian, 117-138 CE
portrait of the emperor wearing a laurel wreath.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

gold aureus of Hadrian, Rome mint, 121 CE
The obverse contains the head of Hadrian wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts Jupiter standing facing front, holding a thunderbolt in his right hand and a scepter in his left; the inscription gives further titles of Hadrian.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: Zeus

brass sestertius of Hadrian, Rome mint, 124-128 CE
The obverse contains the head of Hadrian wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his name. The reverse depicts the goddess Roma seated on a cuirass and shield, resting her right foot on a helmet, holding a small Victory in her right hand and a cornucopia in her left; the inscription reads CO[n]S[ul] III.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009

denarius of Hadrian, 117-138 CE
Depicts Juno Moneta holding scales and cornucopia.
Amsterdam, Allard Pierson Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2003
Keywords: coin; coinmaking

brass sestertius of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 134-138 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the goddess Diana standing with an arrow in her right hand and a bow in her left; she wears a diadem on her head. There is no inscription other than the standard S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: Artemis

aureus of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 125-128 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin shows the wolf (lupa romana) suckling the twins Romulus and Remus. The inscription reads CO[n]S[ul] III.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: folundation myth; legend

gold aureus of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 137 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the goddess Roma wearing a helmet and sitting on cuirass and shield; she holds the heads of Sol and Luna in her outstretched right hand while leaning on a spear with her left. The inscription reads ROMA AETERNA.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial symbolism

brass sestertius of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 123 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Concordia standing between two military standards; she holds a legionary eagle in her right hand and an imperial standard in her left. The inscription reads CONCORDIA EXERCITVVM ("harmony of the troops").
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial symbolism; army

gold aureus of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 134-138 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin shows a female figure personifying the province of Africa receiving the emperor with a sacrifice. Hadrian stands on the left with his right hand raised in greeting; on the right, Africa, wearing an elephant headdress, extends a patera over a tripod with her right hand while holding ears of wheat with her left. At the foot of the tripod is a sacrificial animal. This is part of a large series of coins commemorating the emperor's travels to various Roman provinces. The inscription reads ADVENTI AVG[usti] AFRICAE.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial symbolism; personification

gold aureus of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 134-138 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin shows a draped female figure personifying Italy receiving the emperor with a sacrifice. Hadrian stands on the left with his right hand raised in greeting; on the right, Italy extends a patera over a flaming altar with her right hand while holding a cornucopia with her left. This is part of a large series of coins commemorating the emperor's travels to various Roman regions and provinces. The inscription reads ADVENTI AVG[usti] ITALIAE.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism; personification

silver denarius of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 134-138 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of the province of Africa. She reclines on the ground, wearing an elephant headdress; her garment leaves her right breast exposed, suggesting an Amazon. In her left hand she holds a cornucopia and in her right a scorpion, with a basket full of wheat at her feet. This is part of a large series of coins depicting the regions and provinces under Rome's control.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial symbolism; personification; allegory

gold aureus of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 134-138 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of the province of Hispania. She reclines on the ground, fully draped, with her left arm resting on a basket entwined with a snake (cista mystica). She holds a sistrum (rattle used in the worship of Isis) in her outstretched right hand, and a sacred ibis stands at her feet. This is part of a large series of coins depicting the regions and provinces under Rome's control.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial symbolism; personification; allegory

gold aureus of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 134-138 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Egypt. She reclines on the ground, fully draped, with her left arm resting on some rocks. She holds an olive branch (symbolizing Spain's production of olive oil) in her outstretched right hand, and a rabbit crouches at her feet. This is part of a large series of coins depicting the regions and provinces under Rome's control.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial symbolism; personification; allegory

brass sestertius of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 134-138 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of the province of Mauretania. She is dressed as an Amazon, with a short tunic that leaves her right breast bare; she leads a horse with her left hand and holds two javelins in her right hand. This is part of a large series of coins depicting the regions and provinces under Rome's control.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial symbolism; personification; allegory

sestertius of Hadrian, mint of Rome, 128 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin shows a female figure personifying Hilaritas holding a cornucopia and standing between two children. She reaches toward a large palm branch held toward her by a small naked boy, while behind her a little girl, fully dressed, reaches both arms toward the figure. The inscription reads HILARITAS P[opuli] R[omani] CO[n]S[ul] III S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

sestertius of Hadrian, 117-138 CE
Obverse shows a seated personification of Justice holding a scepter and patera (libation bowl); inscription reads IVSTITIA AVG COS III PPP.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

denarius of Hadrian, 117-138 CE
part of a series of coins celebrating the emperor's alleged virtues, in this case Justice.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

denarius of Hadrian, 117-138 CE
part of a series of coins celebrating the emperor's alleged virtues, in this case Liberality.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

denarius of Hadrian, 117-138 CE
part of a series of coins celebrating the emperor's alleged virtues, in this case Patience.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

denarius of Hadrian, 117-138 CE
part of a series of coins celebrating the emperor's alleged virtues, in this case Tranquility.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

reverse of bronze drachm of Hadrian, issued in Egypt, 133-34 CE
depicts two snakes reflecting native Egyptian symbolism—Agathodaemon (sacred to Serapis) and Uraeus (sacred to Isis).
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: provincial coinage; religious symbolism

bronze drachm of Hadrian, mint of Alexandria, 132-133 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin shows the head of a syncretic deity called Pantheus ("All-Gods"), with the head of Serapis wearing his modius headdress, the ram's horns of Zeus Ammon, the aegis of Athena, and the radiate crown of Sol, holding the trident with leaping dolphin of Neptune and the cornucopia of Fortuna. The LZ before the god's face is the number 17, referring to the seventeenth year of Hadrian's reign.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: provincial coinage; religious symbolism

brass sestertius of Hadrian honoring his wife Sabina, Rome mint, 128 CE
The obverse contains a portrait of the empress Vibia Sabina, wearing a diadem with her hair braided and coiled on top of her head, encircled by the inscription SABINA AVGVSTA HADRIANI AVG[usti] P[atris] P[atriae]. The reverse depicts the goddess Ceres (Demeter) seated on a basket (cista), holding two ears of grain in her right hand and a torch in her left.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009

brass sestertius of Hadrian honoring his wife Sabina, Rome mint, 128 CE
The obverse contains a portrait of the empress Vibia Sabina, wearing a diadem with her hair braided and coiled on top of her head, encircled by the inscription SABINA AVGVSTA HADRIANI AVG[usti] P[atris] P[atriae].
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006

gold aureus of Hadrian honoring his wife Sabina, Rome mint, 132-134 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse contains a portrait of the empress Vibia Sabina, wearing a diadem with her hair simply arranged and pulled back into a loose braid hanging down her neck, encircled by the inscription SABINA AVGVSTA HADRIANI AVG[usti] P[atris] P[atriae].
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: empress

silver denarius of Hadrian honoring his wife Sabina, Rome mint, 128-135 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse contains a portrait of the empress Vibia Sabina; the reverse, shown here, depicts the goddess Vesta seated on a elaborate throne, holding the Palladium in her outstretched right hand and a scepter in her left. The inscription reads VESTA. This coin was part of a hoard of 599 denarii hidden in a cooking pot found near modern Caerwent; the pot was probably buried about 160 CE.
Caerleon, Wales, Museum of the Roman Legion. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: empress

gold aureus of Hadrian honoring his wife Sabina, Rome mint, 136-138 CE;
The obverse contains a portrait of the empress Vibia Sabina, wearing a diadem and a veil, encircled by the inscription DIVA AVG[usta] SABINA, referring to her deification after her death.
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: empress; deification

silver cistophoric tetradrachm of Hadrian, minted in Ephesus, c. 129-138 CE
The reverse of the coin shows the cult statue of Artemis of Ephesus, with the legend DIANA EPHESIA. Two stags look up at the goddess.
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: religion

sestertius of Lucius Verus; minted in Troas, Ilium, 161-169 CE
The coin depicts Aeneas carrying Anchises, holding the Penates, on his left shoulder; he looks back at Ascanius, wearing a Phrygian cap, whom he holds by the hand. The pose mimics the statuary group in the Forum of Augustus.
Boston. Museum of Fine Arts. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2002
Keywords: Vergil; Aeneid

aureus of Lucius Verus; minted in Rome, 161-162 CE
The reverse of the coin depicts Lucius Verus and Marcus Aurelius, both wearing togas, standing and clasping right hands. The inscription reads CONCORD[ia] AVGVSTOR[um] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] II CO[n]S[ul] II, attesting to the concord and harmony between the co-emperors.
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: joint reign

aureus of Macrinus, Rome mint, 218 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of the coin depicts Macrinus in a richly decorated triumphal chariot drawn by four horses. He holds a sceptre and an eagle; a Victory stands behind him holding a palm branch. The inscription reads PONTIF[ex] MAX[imus] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] II CO[n]S[ul] II P[ater] P[atriae]. Macrinus had been an instigator of the assassination of Caracalla in 217 and was subsequently proclaimed emperor by the army; his reign lasted only 14 months before he fell to the forces mobilized by Julia Maesa.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: quadriga; usurper; triumph

denarius of Macrinus, Rome mint, 218 CE
The reverse of the coin depicts the personification of Liberalitas as a draped female holding an abacus in her right hand and a cornucopia in her left; the inscription reads LIBERALITAS AVG[usti]. Macrinus had been an instigator of the assassination of Caracalla in 217 and was subsequently proclaimed emperor by the army; his reign lasted only 14 months before he fell to the forces mobilized by Julia Maesa.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: usurper

aureus of Macrinus, Rome mint, 218 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of the coin depicts an imperial distribution of cash to citizens (congiarium). The emperor and his young son Diadumenian sit on curule chairs on a high platform; an officer stands behind them, while the personification of Liberalitas stands in front, holding an abacus in her right hand and a cornucopia in her left. A togate citizen stands before the platform with his arms raised to receive the coins. The inscription reads LIBERALITAS AVG[usti]. Macrinus had been an instigator of the assassination of Caracalla in 217 and was subsequently proclaimed emperor by the army; his reign lasted only 14 months before he fell to the forces mobilized by Julia Maesa.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: usurper; largesse

aureus of Marcus Aurelius, mint of Rome, 168 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Aequitas ("fairness") as a draped and diademmed female seated on a throne; in her left hand she holds a cornucopia and in her right the trutina, the small balance scale used for weighing coins.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: finance; imperial symbolism

aureus of Marcus Aurelius, mint of Rome, 175 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Felicitas ("happiness, good fortune") as a standing female, draped and diademmed; in her left hand she holds a scepter and in her right the caduceus (Mercury's staff entwined with 2 snakes, symbol of commerce).
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: finance; imperial symbolism

sestertius of Marcus Aurelius, Rome mint, 161-162 CE
The obverse contains a bareheaded portrait of Marcus Aurelius, encircled by the inscription with his titles. The reverse depicts the new emperor clasping right hands with Lucius Verus (both wearing togas). The inscription reads CONCORD[ia] AVGVSTOR[um] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] XVI CO[n]S[ul] III, attesting to the concord and harmony between Marcus Aurelius and his co-emperor. Lucius Verus was the son of Hadrian's first designated heir, Lucius Aelius Caesar, who died before he could succeed Hadrian. Antoninus Pius had named Lucius Verus as joint heir with Marcus Aurelius, who made the younger man co-emperor and married him to his daughter Lucilla.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: joint reign

gold ring containing aureus of Marcus Aurelius, who reigned 161-80 CE
Emperor is shown wearing a laurel wreath.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin, jewelry

aureus of the deified Antoninus Pius, issued by Marcus Aurelius after 161 CE;
larger version.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, deification

sestertius of Marcus Aurelius; mint of Rome, 161-175 CE;
smaller version.
The empress, Faustina the Younger, is portrayed as the goddess Juno Regina, part of the Capitoline triad of deities; she holds a patera and scepter, and a peacock stands at her feet.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: Faustina Minor; coin

copper coin (as) of Marcus Aurelius honoring Faustina II, Rome mint, 161-176 CE
The obverse contains a portrait head of the emperor's wife, Faustina the Younger, with her hair waved and coiled in a chignon, encircled by the inscription FAVSTINA AVGVSTA. The reverse depicts the goddess Diana standing with her head facing left, holding a long lighted torch across her body with both hands; the inscription reads DIANA LVCIF[era] ("Diana, bearer of light").
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: Faustina Minor; Artemis

bronze coin of Marcus Aurelius, 161-180 CE, minted in Ilium
The coin depicts the Trojan hero Hector driving a quadriga (four-horse chariot).
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: mythology; Homer; Iliad

gold aureus of Faustina the Younger, issued by Marcus Aurelius, mint of Rome, 161-75 CE;
smaller version.
There is a portrait of Faustina on the obverse, and the reverse, shown here, depicts the Goddess Cybele with the inscription MATRI MAGNAE ("for the Great Mother"). Cybele is seated on a throne flanked by lions; she wears a mural crown and holds a tympanum (a kind of drum used in her worship).
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: coin; Faustina Minor; Faustina II

sestertius of Faustina, issued by Marcus Aurelius, 161-76 CE
There is a portrait of Faustina the Younger on the obverse, and the reverse, shown here, shows a female holding a scepter in her right hand; an infant sits on her extended left hand holding out his hands to her. The inscription, partially lost on this coin, reads FECVNDITAS ("fertility") in celebration of the empress's many children.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin; Faustina Minor; Faustina II

sestertius of Faustina, issued by Marcus Aurelius, 161-76 CE
smaller version.
There is a portrait of Faustina the Younger on the obverse, and the reverse, shown here, shows a female holding an infant in each hand with stars over the babies' heads, a probable reference to the twin boys Commodus and Antoninus, borne by Faustina in 161 CE. At her feet cluster four more children. The inscription, reads TEMPOR[um] FELIC[itas], ("the happiness of the times") in celebration of the empress's many children.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin; Faustina Minor; Faustina II

sestertius of Faustina, issued by Marcus Aurelius, c. 161 CE
There is a portrait of Faustina the Younger on the obverse, and the reverse, shown here, shows two infants with stars over their heads playing on a draped, throne-like chair, referring to the twin boys Commodus and Antoninus, borne by Faustina in 161 CE. The inscription reads SAECVLI FELICIT[as], ("the happiness of the age") in celebration of the birth of heirs to the throne.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin; Faustina Minor; Faustina II

aureus of Marcus Aurelius honoring Lucilla, mint of Rome, 166-169 CE.
smaller version.
The obverse of the coin has a portrait of Annia Aurelia Galeria Lucilla, the daughter of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger and wife of Lucius Verus. The reverse, shown here, shows the goddess Fecunditas (Fertility) seated on a stool, holding an infant in her lap, while a toddler at her feet reaches a hand toward her.
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010

sestertius of Lucilla; mint of Rome, 164-166 CE
Lucilla was the daughter of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger; she was also the wife of the co-emperor Lucius Verus. The inscription reads LVCILLAE AVG[ustae]ANTONINI AVG[usti] F[ilia].
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin

sestertius of Lucilla (reverse); mint of Rome, 164-166 CE;
smaller version.
Lucilla was the daughter of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger; she was also the wife of the co-emperor Lucius Verus. The inscription on this coin reverse reads PIETAS S[enatus] C[onsulto] and depicts the personification of Pietas scattering incense over a flaming altar with her right hand while holding an open incense box (acerra) with her left.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: religion

sestertius of Marcus Aurelius honoring Lucilla, mint of Rome, 161-169 CE.
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin has a portrait of Annia Aurelia Galeria Lucilla, the daughter of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger and wife of Lucius Verus. The inscription reads LVCILLA AVGVSTA
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: imperial women

sestertius of Lucilla, issued by Marcus Aurelius; mint of Rome, 164-166 CE
smaller version.
On the reverse of this coin, the goddess Vesta, veiled and diademmed, is shown standing beside an altar with a burning flame. She holds in her right hand a simpulum (a long-handled ladle used by a pontifex (a type of priest) for pouring wine at sacrifices. On her left shoulder she holds the Palladium, the city- protecting wooden statue of Athena that Aeneas (pre-Vergil) brought from Troy to Rome and deposited in the Temple of Vesta.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: foundation legend; legendary history of Rome; Vestal Virgins

silver denarius of Lucilla, minted in Rome, 164-166 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of the coin contains a portrait of Lucilla, daughter of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger and wife of the co-emperor Lucius Verus. The inscription reads LVCILLAE AVG[ustae] ANTONINI AVG[ugusti] F[iliae].
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial women

brass sestertius of Nero, 65 CE
Nero is shown wearing a diadem. Inscription reads NERO CLAVD[ius] AVG[ustus] GER[manicus] P[ontifex] M[aximus] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] IMP[erator] P[ater] P[atriae].
Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: coin

brass sestertius of Nero, 65 CE
Nero is shown wearing a diadem. Inscription reads NERO CLAVD[ius] AVG[ustus] GER[manicus] P[ontifex] M[aximus] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] IMP[erator] P[ater] P[atriae].
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin

gold aureus of Nero, Rome mint, 65-66 CE
The obverse contains the head of Nero wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his name. The reverse depicts Jupiter seated on a backless throne, holding a thunderbolt in his right hand and a scepter in his left; the inscription reads IVPPITER CVSTOS ("Jupiter the guardian"). This coin may refer to the crushing of the conspiracy of C. Calpurnius Piso against Nero in 65 CE.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: Zeus

brass sestertius of Nero, mint of Lyons, 65 CE
The obverse contains the head of Nero wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts the goddess Roma seated on a cuirass and shield, resting her right foot on a helmet, holding a small Victory in her right hand and a sheathed sword in her left; the inscription reads ROMA.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009

sestertius of Nero; mint of Rome, 62-68 CE
This coin allegorically represents the grain dole (annona). Ceres is seated holding a torch and stalks of grain in her left hand; with her right she hands a cornucopia to the standing Annona A modius (vessel for measuring grain) sits on the table between them, with a ship's prow visible behind. The inscription reads ANNONA AVGVSTI CERES.
Vienna, Kunsthistorisches Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006

brass sestertius of Nero; 64-66 CE;
smaller version.
This coin shows the Shrine of Janus with the doors closed, signifying peace (probably refers to the surrender of the Armenian king Tiridates).
New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2011
Keywords: military, ritual; pax

brass sestertius of Nero; 64-66 CE
larger version; detail, Shrine of Janus.
This coin shows the Shrine of Janus with the doors closed, signifying peace (probably refers to the surrender of the Armenian king Tiridates).
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: military, ritual; pax

sestertius of Nero; 64-66 CE
Shows Temple of Janus with the doors closed, signifying peace.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: military, ritual; pax

dupondius of Nero; 62-65 CE
smaller version.
This coin reverse is one of many on which Nero is depicted dressed in the flowing garments of Apollo Citharoedus, holding a lyre in his left hand and plucking it a plectrum in his right. This was doubtless a reference to Nero's concept of himself as a skilled poet, musician, and singer. The inscription reads PONTIF[ex] MAX[aximus] TR[ibinicia] POT[estas] IMP[erator] P[ater] P[atriae].
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus 2012
Keywords: artist

dupondius or as of Nero; 62-65 CE
This coin reverse is one of many on which Nero is depicted dressed in the flowing garments of Apollo Citharoedus, holding a lyre in his left hand and plucking it with his right. This was doubtless a reference to Nero's concept of himself as a skilled poet, musician, and singer.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: artist

brass sestertius of Nero, mint of Lyons or Rome, c.65 CE
The reverse of the coin depicts a triumphal arch of Nero, probably that decreed by the Senate in 58 CE to celebrate the eastern victories of Nero's general Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo; this arch was erected somewhere on the Capitoline Hill, but it may have been destroyed after Nero's death. On top of the arch a quadriga stands between the goddesses Pax and Victoria, while a relief of Mars is shown on one side of the arch.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Ann Raia, 2012
Keywords: city of Rome

brass sestertius of Nero, mint of Lyons or Rome, c. 65 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of the coin depicts a triumphal arch of Nero, probably that decreed by the Senate in 58 CE to celebrate the eastern victories of Nero's general Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo; this arch was erected somewhere on the Capitoline Hill, but it may have been destroyed after Nero's death. On top of the arch a quadriga stands between the goddesses Pax and Victoria, while a relief of Mars is shown on one side of the arch.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: city of Rome

brass dupondius of Nero, mint of Rome, 64 CE
The obverse of the coin contains a portrait of Nero wearing a radiate crown with the legend NERO CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG[ustus] GER[manicus] P[ontifex] M[aximus] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] IMP[erator] P[ater] P[atriae].
The reverse depicts the market (Macellum Magnum) built by Nero on the Caelian Hill in Rome in 59 CE. The building is shown as a circular structure of two stories surmounted by a dome, flanked by two-storied colonnades on each side. Stairs lead up to the central building in which stands a large male statue. The letgend reads MAC[ellum] AVG[usti] S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Ann Raia, 2012
Keywords: commerce; shopping; city of Rome

brass sestertius of Nero, mint of Lyons, 66 CE
smaller version.
The coin depicts a congiarium, a ceremony where the seated emperor gave out cash presents. Nero is seated on a low platform with the praefectus annonae standing before him. A standing attendant hands coins or tesserae to a togate citizen. Behind is a statue of Minerva. The inscription reads CONG[iarium] II DAT[um] POP[ulo] S[enatus] C[onsulto].
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: largesse, imperial symbolism

brass sestertius of Nero, mint of Rome, 64 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of the coin depicts an imperial distribution of cash to citizens (congiarium). The emperor is seated on a sella curulis on a high platform; an attendant seated on a lower platform writes on a wax tablet while a togate citizen on a ladder extends his hand to receive the coins, with a small boy standing behind him. Statues of Liberalityas and Minerva stand on pedestals in the background. The inscription reads CONG[iarium] I DAT[um] POP[ulo] S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: largesse; imperial symbolism

sestertius of Nero, 54-68 CE
larger version.
This coin depicts the opening of the new Roman port at Ostia (Portus).
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: harbor; shipping; ship; commerce

sestertius of Nero, 54-68 CE
depicting the opening of the new Roman port at Ostia (Portus).
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: harbor; shipping; ship; commerce

denarius of Nero with Temple of Vesta, 64-68 CE
The reverse shows a round temple with 6 columns and the statue of Vesta within.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: coin, religion

gold coin with head of Nero, 54-68 CE
found in Herculaneum; he wears a laurel wreath and sideburns
Naples, National Archaeological Museum (“Stories from an Eruption” exhibit). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2003
Keywords: aureus

gold coin with head of Nero, 54-68 CE
he wears a laurel wreath and sideburns
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2003
Keywords: aureus

aureus of Nero, mint of Lyons, 54 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin shows facing portraits of the new emperor Nero and his powerful mother Agrippina the Younger, indicating the important role she played during the early part of his reign. The inscription refers to her, AGRIPP[ina] AVG[usta] DIVI CLAVD[ii] NERONIS CAES[aris] MATER, while Nero's inscription appears on the reverse of the coin.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: empress; Agrippina Minor

gold coin with facing portraits of Nero and Agrippina the Younger on obverse, 54 CE
The legend reads "Agrippina Augusta, wife of the Divine Claudius, mother of Nero Caesar" (AGRIPP AVG DIVI CLAVD NERONIS CAES MATER). This coin was found among the victims at Herculaneum.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum ("Stories from an Eruption" exhibit). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2003
Keywords: aureus

aureus of Nero, 64-65 CE
smaller version; detail, Nero and Poppaea.
The reverse of the coin shows Nero, wearing the radiate crown of a deity, standing with patera and scepter next to his wife Poppaea, standing with patera and cornucopia; the inscription reads AVGVSTUS AVGVSTA. Some identify these figures as the first emperor Augustus and his wife Livia.
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: coin, emperor, empress

aureus of Nero, 64-65 CE
The reverse of the coin shows Nero, wearing the radiate crown of a deity, standing with patera and scepter next to his wife Poppaea, standing with patera and cornucopia; the inscription reads AVGVSTUS AVGVSTA. Some identify these figures as the first emperor Augustus and his wife Livia.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: coin, emperor, empress

aureus of Nero, 64-65 CE
The obverse of the coin shows a portrait of Nero, wearing a laurel leaf crown, with the legend NERO CAESAR AVGVSTUS. The reverse depicts the emperor, with radiate crown, standing with patera and scepter next to his wife Poppaea, standing with patera and cornucopia; the inscription reads AVGVSTUS AVGVSTA. Some identify these figures as the first emperor Augustus and his wife Livia.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: coin, emperor, empress

billon tetradrachm of Nero, mint of Alexandria. 63-64 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin contains a portrait of Poppaea, showing her hairstyle of curls on top and around her face, a long ringlet just beneath her ear, and braids pulled into a bun at the nape of her neck. The Greek inscription (POPPAIA SEBASTE) translates to Poppaea Augusta, while the LI beneath her chin refers to "year 10," the tenth year of Nero's reign.
Copenhagen, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: empress; provincial coinage

brass sestertius of Nerva, Rome mint, January-September, 97 CE
The obverse of this coin bears a striking portrait of the emperor, exaggerating his distinctive Roman nose.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, emperor

brass sestertius of Nerva, Rome mint, January-September, 97 CE
The reverse of this coin (see above for the obverse) depicts a handclasp in front of a legionary eagle standard set on a ship's prow. The legend reads CONCORDIA EXERCITVVM, "the concord/unity of the troops."
Berlin, Museum for Prehistory and Early History. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, army, military symbolism

brass sestertius of Nerva, Rome mint, December, 96 CE
smaller version.
On the reverse of this coin, the new emperor, Nerva, sits on a curule chair (sella curulis) on a high platform and watches as an attendant gives coins to a togate Roman citizen on a ladder. On the platform are statues of Minerva and Liberalitas. The inscription, CONGIAR[ium] P[opulis] R[omanis] S[enatus] C[onsulto], ccommemorates Nerva's gift (bribe?) of 75 denarii to all citizens of Rome when he assumed the throne after the assassination of Domitian.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin, congiarium

aureus of Nerva, Rome mint, January-September, 97 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Aequitas (fairness) as a draped and diademed female standing and holding a cornucopia and the small scales used for weighing coins (trutina). The inscription reads AEQVITAS AVGVST[i] (or Augusta), emphasizing the fact that Nerva promised to ensure the stability and equity of the coinage.
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012

brass sestertius of Nerva, Rome mint, January-September, 97 CE
The obverse contains the head of Nerva wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts a modius (a three-legged container for a measure of wheat) containing 8 ears of grain, with a poppy in the center. The inscription reads PLEBEI VRBANAE FRVMENTO CONSTITVTO ("because grain has been arranged for the people of the city"), referring to Nerva's steps to increase the reliability of the grain supply to the citizens residing in Rome.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: dole, annona

brass medallion of Numerianus, Rome mint, 244-249 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this medallion depicts the three Monetae, personficiations of the three meals used in coinage (gold, silver, brass/copper). Each figure wears a wreath in her hair and carries a cornucopia, signifying abundance, and holds in her right hand a trutina, the small scale used for weighing coins.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin; Moneta

bronze coin of Philip I (also called Philip the Arab), mint of Bizye in Thrace, 244-249 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the massive City Gate of Bizye, with two towers and a large quadriga and other statues on the top; the arched door has carved reliefs on either side and a half-open portcullis.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin; fortifications

brass sestertius of Philip I (also called Philip the Arab), mint of Rome, 244-49 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Fides as a draped female holding a scepter in her right hand (symbolizing the emperor) and a military standard in her left (symbolizing the army). The inscription reads FIDES MILITVM (loyalty of the soldiers), indicating the fact that Philip owed his position as emperor to the army.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012

gold aureus of Postumus, minted in Germany, 263-264 CE;
smaller version.
Postumus was a general in Germany under the co-emperors Valerian and Gallienus; after the army in Gaul revolted and proclaimed Postumus emperor, he founded the Gallic Empire, comprising the provinces in Gaul, Britain, and Spain, but did not claim the entire Roman Empire. He set up imperial structures imitating those in Rome, including the traditional titles on the inscription on the reverse of this coin: P[ontifex] M[aximus] T[ribunicia] P[otestas] IMP[erator] V CO[n]S[ul] III P[ater] P[atriae]. The coin draws on the very traditional institution of the Vestal Virgins to reinforce and emphasize his legitimacy--Postumus, in military dress, and an assistant in a toga face two veiled Vestals and a child (possibly a young Vestal) over an altar with a flame; behind them is depicted the round Temple of Vesta in the Roman Forum.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: usurper

aureus of Septimius Severus, mint of Rome, 202-210 CE
The reverse of this coin depicts the goddess Caelestis (also known as Dea Caelestis or Juno Caelestis), patron deity of Carhtage derived from the Phoenician goddess Tanit. She sits sidesaddle on a lion leaping over water gushing from some rocks, holding a thunderbolt in her right hand and a scepter in her left. The inscription reads INDVLGENTIA AVGG[Augustorum] IN CARTHAG[ine]; the coin apparently commemorates some special favor shown to the city of Carthage by Severus and his son Caracalla, perhaps connected with the city's water supply.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012

aureus of Septimius Severus, mint of Rome, 207 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the god of healing, Aesculapius, standing in a temple; the god leans on a snake-entwined staff and is flanked by two other snakes. This coin refers to the health of Severus on his departure for North Africa in 207 CE. The inscription reads P[ontifex] M[aximus] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] XV CO[n]S[ul] III P[ater] P[atriae].
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: Aesclepius

aureus of Septimius Severus, mint of Rome, 196-197 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the emperor sacrificing. He wears a toga with the top pulled over his head (capite velato) and pours a libation from a patera over a flaming altar. The inscription reads VOTA PVBLICA; this phrase normally refers to a vow made by the government pledging something for the safety of the state.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: religion; sacrifice

silver denarius of Septimius Severus, mint of Rome, 206 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin commemorates the spectacles staged to celebrate the anniversary of the reigns of Septimius Severus and his son Caracalla in 206 CE, during which a ship with collapsible sides released many exotic animals into the arena. The center of this coin contains a ship with mast and open sails around which run a variety of animals; 4 quadrigae gallop at the top indicating races in the Circus Maximus. The legend reads LAETITIA TEMPORVM ("happiness of the times").
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: circus, venatio, sport, hunt

brass sestertius of Septimius Severus, mint of Rome, 209-210 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts Caracalla, on the left, and Septimius Severus, on the right, holding libation bowls (paterae) over a lighted altar; both wear togas with a fold pulled over their heads (capite velato). Between them stands a draped and veiled female garbed as a priestess, wearing woolen fillets tied at intervals (infulae), symbol of religious consecration, on her head; she may represent the personification of Pietas or Concordia.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: religion; sacrifice

gold solidus of Theodosius II, 441-444 CE;
The obverse of this coin depicts Aelia Eudocia, wife of the Byzantine emperor Theodosius II, whose given name was Athenais; she was Greek, born in Athens to the rhetorician Leontius. She was well educated, composed poetry, and was a patron and supporter of literature. She is shown wearing a pearl diadem, with the hand of God holding a wreath above her head. The inscription reads AEL[ia] EVDOCIA AVG[usta]
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: empress

sestertius of Tiberius for his son Drusus Minor, c. 22 CE
Two crossed cornucopiae display the heads of Drusus' twin sons Tiberius Gemellus and Germanicus Gemellus, with a winged caduceus between them. Germanicus died as a toddler, but Tiberius Gemellus was adopted, and later killed, by Caligula.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: succession, children

brass coin of Tiberius for his son Drusus, c. 22 CE
Two crossed cornucopiae display the heads of Drusus' sons Tiberius Gemellus and Germanicus, with a winged caduceus between them.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2003
Keywords: succession, children

copper coin (as) of Tiberius, mint of Rome, c. 15-16 CE
Obverse depicts the head of the deified Augustus wearing the radiate crown of the sun god, symbol of deification. The thunderbolt of Jupiter and the star of Julius Caesar also appear on the coin. The inscription reads DIVVS AVGVSTVS PATER.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: religion

brass sestertius of Tiberius, c. 34-35 CE
Obverse symbolizes the deification of Augustus by depicting a wagon drawn by four elephants ridden by boys; in the wagon is a seated statue of Augustus holding a branch and a scepter. The inscription reads DIVO AVGVSTO S[enatus] P[opulus]Q[ue] R[omanus].
Paris, Cabinet des Médailles, Bibliothèque Nationale. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: religion

brass sestertius of Tiberius, mint of Rome, 36-37 CE
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin depicts the Temple of Concord in the northern end of the Roman Forum, which was restored by Tiberius during the rieng of Augustus and rededicated in 10 CE. The coin shows a temple with 6 columns and the cult statue of the goddess Concordia Augusta inside.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: religion

dupondius of Tiberius, mint of Lyons, 10-11 CE
smaller version.
This coin was minted by Tiberius prior to his becoming emperor in 14 CE. The reverse shows the Great Altar at Lugdunum (Lyons), which Augustus dedicated on 1 August 10 BCE, the very day that the future emperor Claudius was born in that city. The inscription reads ROM[a] ET AVG[ustus].
Berlin, Museum for Prehistory and Early History. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: religion

gold aureus of Tiberius, mint of Lyons, 14-37 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin shows the head of Tiberius wearing a laurel wreath; the inscription reads TI[berius] CAESAR DIVI AVG[usti] F[ilius] AVGVSTVS, "Tiberius Caesar Augustus, son of the Divine Augustus."
New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012

copper as of Tiberius, mint of Rome, 22-30 CE
Reverse depicts a square altar, probably the Ara Providentiae Augustae in Rome, with double doors and fluted projections (acroteria) on the corners; the coin was minted in honor of "Divus Augustus Pater." Inscription reads S C PROVIDENT.
Amsterdam, Allard Pierson Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2003
Keywords: city of Rome; religion

bronze coin of Tiberius, Cyprus
obverse shows a seated Livia with the inscription IVLIA A[VGVSTA], "Julia Augusta."
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: empress

brass sestertius of Tiberius, mint of Rome, 22-23 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin refers specifically to Tiberius's mother, Livia, using the name and title given to her in Augustus's will, Julia Augusta. The coin depicts a covered cart (carpentum) drawn by two mules, beautifully decorated with Victories, garlands, and other carvings. Riding in such a carriage on public festivals in Rome was a very special privilege reserved for the Vestal Virgins and granted by the Senate as a special honor to a few women. This coin may refer to the fact that in 22 CE the Senate granted Livia the right to sit with the Vestals at public games, and she may also have been granted the right to ride in a carpentum at this time. The legend reads S[enatus] P[opulus]Q[ue] R[omanus] IVLIAE AVGVST[ae].
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin, emperor, imperial women

bronze coin of Tiberius, mint of Utica, 14-21 CE
Obverse shows a seated Livia holding a libation bowl (patera) and a scepter.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin; empress

dupondius of Tiberius, 22-23 CE;
smaller version.
Obverse shows the head of Livia with the inscription SALVS AVGVSTA; the word salus means "health" or "safety" and may refer to the well being of Livia, the Augustan family, the state, or all of these simultaneously.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin; empress; imperial symbolism

dupondius of Tiberius, 22-23 CE;
smaller version.
Another issue of the above coin. The obverse shows the head of Livia with the inscription SALVS AVGVSTA; the word salus means "health" or "safety" and may refer to the well being of Livia, the Augustan family, the state, or all of these simultaneously.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: coin; empress; imperial symbolism

dupondius of Tiberius, 22-23 CE
Obverse shows an idealized female head (possibly Livia or another member of the imperial family) with the inscription IVSTITIA (Justice).
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

dupondius of Tiberius, 22-23 CE
Obverse shows the an idealized female head (possibly Livia or another member of the imperial family) with the inscription IVSTITIA (Justice).
Munich, Münzsammlung. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

dupondius of Tiberius, 23 CE;
smaller version.
Obverse shows the an idealized female head, veiled and wearing a diadem (possibly based on Livia or another member of the imperial family) with the inscription PIETAS.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

copper as of Tiberius, mint of Rome, 15-16 CE
The obverse of this coin contains a portrait of the deified Augustus wearing a radiate crown, with a star above his head and a thunderbolt in front. The legend reads DIVVS AVGVSTVS PATER.
The reverse shows Livia holding a scepter and patera, seated between the large letters S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Ann Raia, 2012
Keywords: coin; imperial symbolism

gold aureus of Tiberius, mint of Lyons, 14-37 CE
The obverse (smaller version) contains a portrait of Tiberius wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by the inscription TI[berius] CAESAR DIVI AVG[usti] F[ilius] AVGVSTVS. The reverse (smaller version; small version) depicts a seated female figure resembling the emperor's mother Livia as the goddess Pax, holding an olive branch and an inverted spear. The inscription bears Tiberius's title PONTIF[ex] MAXIM[us].
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009

aureus of Tiberius, c. 20 CE
obverse shows head of Tiberius (larger version) wearing laurel wreath; inscription reads TI[berius] CAESAR DIVI AVG[usti] F[ilius] AVGVSTVS, "Tiberius Caesar Augustus, son of the Divine Augustus";
reverse shows a seated Livia (larger version) representing Pax (Peace) holding an olive branch and a scepter, with the inscription PONTIF[ex] MAXIM[us], "chief priest."
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: empress; imperial symbolism

aureus of Tiberius, mint of Lyons, 14-37 CE
smaller version; detail, Livia (note nodus hairstyle).
The reverse of the coin depicts a seated female figure resembling the emperor's mother Livia as the goddess Pax, holding an olive branch and an inverted spear or scepter. The inscription bears Tiberius's title PONTIF[ex] MAXIM[us].
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: empress; imperial symbolism

aureus of Tiberius, c. 20 CE
Reverse shows a seated Livia representing Pax (Peace) holding an olive branch and a scepter, with the inscription PONTIF[ex] MAXIM[us], "chief priest."
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2007
Keywords: empress; imperial symbolism

denarius of Tiberius, 14-37 CE
Same description as above—obverse with head of Tiberius; reverse with seated Livia.
This coin is thought to be the coin that Jesus held up when asked whether it was lawful to pay tribute to Rome: "And he saith unto them, 'Whose is this image and superscription?' And they said unto Him, 'Caesar's.' And Jesus, answering, said unto them, 'Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to God the things that are God's.'" (Mark 12:14-17)
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: empress; imperial symbolism; Christianity

copper as of Tiberius, mint of Rome, 15-16 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin contains a bare-headed portrait of Tiberius with the inscription TI[berius] CAESAR DIVI AVG[usti] F[ilius] AVGVST[us] IMP[erator] VII.
New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012

dupondius with head of Marcus Agrippa, struck under Tiberius
Inscription reads “M AGRIPPA L F COS III.”
Boston, Museum of Fine Arts. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2002
Keywords: coin

aureus of Titus, mint of Rome, 73 CE
This coin was struck while Vespasian was still emperor; the obverse has portrait of Titus wearing a laurel wreath and the words T[itus] CAES[ar] IMP[erator] VESP[asianus] CENS[or].
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, succession

brass sestertius with portrait of Titus; reverse, 79-81 CE
The emperor is shown wearing a laurel wreath; reverse shows a palm tree with mourning Jewish captives and the inscription IVD[AEA] CAP[TA], referring to the suppression of the Jewish revolt by Vespasian and Titus.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin

brass sestertius of Titus, Rome mint, 80 CE
The obverse contains the head of Titus wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts the goddess Spes ("hope") striding left, holding a flower in her upraised right hand and lifting the skirt of her dress with her left hand, flanked by the letters S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009

gold aureus of Titus, Rome mint, 75 CE
The obverse contains the head of Titus wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by the inscription T[itus] CAESAR IMP[erator] VESPASIAN[us]. The reverse depicts a winged Victory holding a wreath and standing on top of the sacred basket of Dionysus (cista mystica), which is flanked by two snakes. The inscription reads PONTIF[ex] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] CO[n]S[ul] IIII. The reverse design imitates the eastern cistophori minted by the triumvirs.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010

brass sestertius of Titus, mint of Rome, 80 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin commemorates the completion of the Flavian Amphitheater, showing all four levels of the Colosseum with an interior view of the emperor's box and spectators.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: arena; gladiators; sports; city of Rome

coin minted by Titus: showing all four levels of the Colosseum; 80 CE
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: arena; gladiators; sports; city of Rome

coin minted by Titus; c. 80-81 CE
Shows all four levels of the Colosseum, plus Meta Sudans on left and entrance to Baths of Titus on right.
detail, emperor's box and internal stairs; detail, 4 levels with statues in exterior niches.
New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2007
Keywords: arena; gladiators; sports; city of Rome

drawing of Titus colosseum coin
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004

silver tetradrachm of Trajan, 98-117 CE; minted in Antioch, Syria
Trajan is shown wearing a laurel wreath. The reverse of this coin depicts Tyche of Antioch, the city goddess representing luck or good fortune; below her is the river god Orontes.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin; Fortuna

gold aureus of Trajan, Rome mint, 115 CE
smaller version.
This reverse of this coin shows the god Jupiter standing behind the emperor Trajan and holding a thunderbolt protectively over his head. The inscription reads CONSERVATORI PATRIS PATRIAE ("for the preservation of the Father of the Country").
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: religion

gold aureus of Trajan, Rome mint, 115 CE
smaller version.
This reverse of this coin shows the god Jupiter standing behind the emperor Trajan and holding a thunderbolt protectively over his head. The inscription reads CONSERVATORI PATRIS PATRIAE ("for the preservation of the Father of the Country").
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: religion

brass sestertius of Trajan, Rome mint, 107 CE
The obverse contains the head of Trajan wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts the emperor in military dress on a galloping horse, brandishing a spear at a fallen Dacian; the inscription reads S[enatus] P[opulus]Q[ue] R[omanus] OPTIMO PRINCIPI.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009

aureus of Trajan, 103-111 CE
The reverse of this coin depicts Trajan wearing a toga and holding his right hand out to a boy and girl who look up and reach out to him. Inscription reads CO[n]S[uli] V P[atri] P[atriae] S[enatus] P[opulus]Q[ue] R[omanus] OPTIMO PRINC[ipi] | ALIM[enta] ITAL[iae]. This coin celebrates Trajan's alimenta, a program which provided money for food for orphaned children.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: alimentary; child welfare

aureus of Trajan, 103-111 CE
This is another issue of the above coin celebrating Trajan's alimenta.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: alimentary; child welfare

denarius of Trajan, 103-111 CE
This is different type of coin reverse that celebrates Trajan's alimenta. A goddess holding a cornucopia in her left hand (often identified as Abundantia, but sometimes as a personification of Annona, the grain dole) holds her right hand down to a child, who looks up at her.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: alimentary; child welfare

brass sestertius of Trajan, Rome mint, 111 CE
smaller version.
Similar to the coin above celebrating Trajan's alimenta. A goddess holding a cornucopia in her left hand (often identified as Abundantia, but sometimes as a personification of Annona, the grain dole) holds ears of wheat in her right hand down toward a child, who looks up at her. The inscription reads S[enatus] P[opulus]Q[ue] R[omanus] OPTIMO PRINCIPI S[enatus] C[onsulto] ALIM[enta] ITAL[iae].
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: alimentary; child welfare

brass sestertius of Trajan, Rome mint, 103-111 CE
smaller version.
Similar to the coin above celebrating Trajan's alimenta. On the right, Trajan, wearing a toga and holding a scepter, sits on the sella curulis and extends his right hand toward a woman standing before him holding an infant in her left arm and resting her right hand on a slighlty older child standing at her feet; both children extend their hands toward the emperor. The female has been identified as the personification of Italia. The inscription reads S[enatus] P[opulus]Q[ue] R[omanus] OPTIMO PRINCIPI S[enatus] C[onsulto] ALIM[enta] ITAL[iae].
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: alimentary; child welfare

brass sestertius of Trajan, Rome mint, 114-117 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the personification of Providentia ("foresightedness") as a draped and diademmed female standing and pointing to a large globe at her feet with her right hand; she rests her left arm, holding a scepter, on a column. The inscription reads PROVIDENTIA AVGVSTI S[enatus] P[opulus]Q[ue] R[omanus] S[enatus] C[onsulto].
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: imperial symbolism

aureus of Trajan, 98-117 CE
Trajan is shown wearing a laurel wreath, with the aegis on his shoulder. Inscription reads IMP[erator] CAES[ar] NERVA TRAIAN[us] AVG[ustus] GERM[anicus].
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, emperor

aureus of Trajan, 112-117 CE
Trajan is shown wearing a laurel leaf crown. Inscription reads IMP[erator] TRAIANVS AVG[ustus] DAC[ianus]GER[manicus] P[ontifex] M[aximus] TR[ibunicia] P[otestas] CO[n]S[ul] VI P[ater] P[atriae].
Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: coin

sestertius of Trajan, 112-117 CE
The reverse depicts Trajan's wife Plotina, with her characteristic diademed hairstyle; the inscription reads PLOTINA AVG[usta] IMP[eratoris] TRAIANI.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, empress

aureus of Trajan, 112-117 CE
The reverse depicts Trajan's wife Plotina, with her characteristic diademed hairstyle; the inscription reads PLOTINA AVG[usta] IMP[eratoris] TRAIANI.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: coin, empress

gold aureus of Trajan, mint of Rome, 112 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin contains a portrait of Trajan's wife, Plotina. The reverse, shown here, depicts an altar on steps, identified by the inscription ARA PUDIC[itiae]. The relief on the altar shows the personfication of Pudicitia (female chastity) as a draped goddess standing on a curule chair (sella curulis). The coin may commemorate Plotina's dedication of an altar to Pudicitia or her restoration of the shrine of Patrician Chastity in the Forum Boarium.
Rome, Palazzo dei Conservatori (Capitoline Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: imperial symbolism; imperial women; city of Rome

sestertius of Trajan, mint of Rome, 112 CE;
smaller version.
The obverse of this coin depicts Trajan's sister, Marciana, with an elaborate diademmed hairstyle; the inscription reads DIVA AVGVSTA MARCIANA. Marciana was given the title Augusta about 105 CE and deified after her death in 112 CE. Her daughter, Matidia (mother of Sabina, wife of Hadrian), was named Augusta on Marciana's death.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin; imperial family

aureus of Trajan, mint of Rome, 112 CE;
The obverse of this coin depicts Trajan's sister, Marciana, with an elaborate diademmed hairstyle; the inscription reads DIVA AVGVSTA MARCIANA. Marciana was given the title Augusta about 105 CE and deified after her death in 112 CE. Her daughter, Matidia (mother of Sabina, wife of Hadrian), was named Augusta on Marciana's death.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin; imperial family

denarius of Trajan, 112 CE
The reverse depicts Trajan's sister, Marciana, with an elaborate diademmed hairstyle; the inscription reads DIVA AVGVSTA MARCIANA. Marciana was given the title Augusta about 105 CE and deified after her death in 112 CE. Her daughter, Matidia (mother of Sabina, wife of Hadrian), was named Augusta on Marciana's death.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin; imperial family

aureus of Trajan, mint of Rome, c. 115 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts Trajan's Column, dedicated 12 May 113 CE, built to celebrate his victory over the Dacians. The base of the column bears two eagles, and the emperor's statue stands at the top.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: city of Rome

aureus of Trajan, mint of Rome, 115 CE
smaller version. The reverse of this coin depicts the three porches of the Basilica Ulpia within Trajan's Forum, with a four-horse chariot (quadriga) over the central porch, and a two-horse chariot (biga) over each side porch.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: city of Rome; Trajan's Forum

aureus of Trajan, mint of Rome, 115 CE
The reverse of this coin depicts the monumental entrance to the Forum of Trajan, with six Corinthian columns, central doorway flanked by four niches with statues and honorary shields above. On the top of the entrance can be seen the emperor in a chariot pulled by 6 horses and flanked by trophies on either side.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: city of Rome; Trajan's Forum

aureus of Trajan, mint of Rome, 115 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the monumental entrance to the Forum of Trajan, with six Corinthian columns, central doorway flanked by four niches with statues and honorary shields above. On the top of the entrance can be seen the emperor in a chariot pulled by 6 horses and flanked by trophies on either side.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2004
Keywords: city of Rome; Trajan's Forum

brass sestertius of Trajan, mint of Rome, 104 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin shows an elaborate arch or gateway, with a pediment topped by a panel on which is carved I[uppiter] O[ptimus] M[aximus], surmounted by a six-horse chariot. The structure to which this coin refers is not known. The inscription reads S[enatus] P[opulus]Q[ue] R[omanus] OPTIMO PRINCIPI S[enatus] C[onsulto].
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: city of Rome

brass sestertius of Trajan, mint of Rome, 103 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts Circus Maximus, commemorating Trajan's restoration of that monument after it was severely damaged by fire in 80 CE. The orientation of the monument's details is not realistic, perhaps to emphasize the sections of the circus restored by the emperor. In front are the twelve starting gates (carceres). Parallel to this is the spina (in reality perpendicular to the gates), on which are depicted the metae (turning posts), the obelisk of Ramses II, the dolphins, and the equestrian statue of Trajan himself. On the left is a monumental arch topped with a quadriga; on the right are two arches with quadrigae. In the rear is the Temple of Sol toppped by a radiate sun (this was actually on the Aventine side of the circus). The inscription reads S[enatus] P[opulus]Q[ue] R[omanus] OPTIMO PRINCIPI S[enatus] C[onsulto].
New Haven, Yale Art Gallery. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: city of Rome; sport; chariot racing

brass sestertius of Trajan, mint of Rome, 103 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the Circus Maximus, commemorating Trajan's restoration of that monument after it was severely damaged by fire. The coin shows the spina, metae, obelisk, eggs, dolphins, and Temple of Sol.
Paris, Cabinet des Médailles, Bibliothèque Nationale. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009
Keywords: sport, chariot racing; city of Rome

brass sestertius of Trajan, 104-111 CE
smaller version; depicts the Circus Maximus; minted in Rome.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, emperor, sport

drawing of brass sestertius of Trajan: Circus Maximus; 104-111 CE
smaller version
Credits: J. Henry Middleton, The Remains of Ancient Rome. Vol. II. (1892) fig. 56, p. 45
Keywords: coin, emperor, sport

simplified drawing of Trajan's circus coin
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2003

brass sestertius of Trajan, 112-117 CE
depicts the three porches of the Basilica Ulpia, with a 4-horse chariot over the central porch, and a two-horse chariot over each side porch, in the Forum of Trajan.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, city of Rome

brass sestertius of Trajan, 105 CE
This may depict a bridge over the river Danube, referring to his Dacian campaign, but it may also refer to a restoration of one of the bridges across the Tiber in Rome, possibly the Pons Sublicius. Note the four-horse chariots over the arches at both ends of the bridge.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, city of Rome

brass dupondius of Trajan, 105 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts an arched bridge, possibly referring to a bridge over the river Danube, referencing his Dacian campaign, but it may also refer to a restoration of one of the bridges across the Tiber in Rome, possibly the Pons Sublicius. The coin shows four-horse chariots over the arches at both ends of the bridge and a riverboat at anchor below the bridge.
Berlin, Bode Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: coin, city of Rome

brass sestertius of Trajan, mint of Rome, 106 CE
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the Temple of Jupitor Victor on the Palatine, with eight columns and a colonnade on either side; the seated cult statue of Jupiter can be seen inside.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: coin, city of Rome; religion

brass contorniate, mid-fourth century CE
smaller version.
This was a large brass medallion which the emperor gave as gift on New Year's day). It depicts a chariot race in the Circus Maximus.
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: coin; sport; donative

brass contorniate, mid-fourth century CE
(large brass medallion for emperor to give as gift New Year's day); depicts chariot race in the Circus Maximus.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, emperor, sport, donative

brass contorniate, mid-fourth century CE;
smaller version.
This large brass medallion, depicting a water organ, was minted for the emperor to give as a gift New Year's day.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2006
Keywords: coin, donative, music, musical instrument

aureus of Valentinian I, 364-75 CE
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin, imperial symbolism, donative

aureus of Vespasian, mint of Rome, 78-79 CE
Obverse with portrait of Vespasian wearing a laurel wreath and the words CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG[ustus].
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, emperor

aureus of Vespasian, 72-73 CE
The reverse of this coin depicts a Victory standing on a globe holding a wreath and palm branch. She wears a melon hairdo and has a distinctive, individualized face. The legend reads VIC[toria] AVG[vsti].
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: imperial symbolism

brass dupondius of Vespasian, mint of Rome or Lyons, 71 CE
The reverse of this coin depicts a Victory alighting on the prow of a ship, holding out a wreath with her right hand while a palm branch rests on her left shoulder. The legend reads VICTORIA NAVALIS S[enatus] C[onsulto] and celebrates a naval victory of Vespasian, probably associated with his campaign in Judaea.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: imperial symbolism

brass sestertius of Vespasian, mint of Rome or Lyons, 71 CE
The reverse of this coin depicts a Victory holding a palm branch in her left hand while her right hand crowns Vespasian with a wreath. The emperor wears a toga with a fold pulled over his head and pours a libation over an altar. Behind is an arch topped with two standing male figures, possibly the personifications of the Genius Populi Romani and the Genius Senatus, indicating Vespasian's assumption of the imperial throne after the year of civil wars following the death of Nero.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: imperial symbolism

brass sestertius of Vespasian, mint of Lyons, 72-73 CE
The obverse contains the head of Vespasian wearing a laurel-leaf crown, encircled by an inscription giving his titles. The reverse depicts the goddess Salus ("health. safety") seated, holding a patera (libation plate) in her right hand and a scepter in her left: the inscription reads SALVS AVGVSTA.
Bergen (Norway), Bergen Museum, University of Bergen. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2009

sestertius of Vespasian, mint of Rome, 71 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the god Mars in full armor, carrying a trophy (tropaeum) on his left shoulder and holding a winged victory in his outstretched right arm. The inscription reads MARS VICTOR.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2013
Keywords: Ares

sestertius of Vespasian, 71 CE;
smaller version.
The reverse of this coin depicts the Temple of Isis in the Campus Martius. The temple has 4 columns with statues of Egyptian deities on either side of the steps; in the cella is a statue of the goddess Isis holding a patera in her right hand and a ritual jug in her left; above the entrance is a lunate pediment with a relief of Isis sitting on a dog. This temple of Isis was significant to Vespasian because it sheltered him and his son Titus as they waited for their joint triumph in 71 CE.
Berlin, Altes Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2012
Keywords: city of Rome; religion

brass sestertius of Vespasian, 69-79 CE
depicts Capitoline Temple of Jupiter.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin, emperor

aureus of Vespasian with shrine of Vesta, 73 CE
smaller version
The reverse shows a round temple with 4 columns and the statue of Vesta within, flanked by two statues on pedestals. This is thought to depict the aedicula Vestae on the Palatine, built by Augustus in 12 BCE.
Naples, National Archaeological Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2010
Keywords: city of Rome; temple

aureus of Vespasian with shrine of Vesta, 73 CE
smaller version
The reverse shows a round temple with 4 columns and the statue of Vesta within, flanked by two statues on pedestals. This is thought to depict the aedicula Vestae on the Palatine, built by Augustus in 12 BCE.
Rome, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Museums). Credits: Barbara McManus, 2007
Keywords: city of Rome; temple

drawing of brass sestertius of Vespasian: Capitoline Temple of Jupiter; 69-79 CE
Credits: Robert Burn, Rome and the Campagna, title page, 1876.

aureus of Vitellius, 69 CE
Obverse with portrait of Vitellius wearing a laurel wreath; this emperor, whose fleshy face reveals his notorious fondness for eating, ruled for less than a year in the tumultuous civil wars that followed the death of Nero.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, emperor

aureus of Vitellius, 69 CE
Another obverse with portrait of Vitellius wearing a laurel wreath; Vitellius bore the title of emperor from April to December of 69 CE, following the even briefer reign of Otho.
Berlin, Pergamon Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2005
Keywords: coin, emperor

aureus of Vitellius, minted at Rome between July and December, 69 CE
This reverse depicts the allegorical goddess Liberty, beautifully draped, standing with a scepter in her left hand and a pileus (the cap of liberty worn by newly freed slaves) in her right. By the image and inscription, LIBERTAS RESTITVTA ("liberty restored"), Vitellius suggests that he has finally put an end to the suppression of freedom under Nero (though of course stable government was not restored until the accession of Vespasian at the very end of 69).
Copenhagen, National Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2008
Keywords: coin, emperor

gold pendant containing aureus of Volusian, who reigned 251-53 CE
Emperor is shown wearing the rayed crown of the sun god, traditional symbol of deity.
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001
Keywords: coin, jewelry

base silver tetradrachms of Alexandria, 162 CE
(representing 8 drachmae, the total tax paid by one Sarapion for one camel-load of vegetable seed and two donkey-loads of wheat, as recorded in a papyrus of that year)
detail, obverse; detail, reverse
London, British Museum. Credits: Barbara McManus, 2001.

Go to Index, Part I, Part II, Part III, Part IV, Part V, Part VI, Part VII, Part VIII, Part IX, Part X, Part XI, Part XII, Part XIII, Part XIV, Part XV, Roman Coins: Republic and Principate, Greek Coins, Coins from the Museum of Cultural History, University of Oslo, Coins from the National Museum in Warsaw, Poland, Coins from the Hunterian Museum