During his reign (27 BC – 14 AD), Roman Emperor Augustus issued a variety of coins that played a crucial role in the Roman monetary system and served as a powerful medium for spreading imperial ideology.
- Materials and denominations: Augustus’ monetary system was primarily bimetallic, utilizing gold and silver coins whose intrinsic value matched their nominal value.
– Gold Aureus: The highest denomination, made of pure gold, weighed about 8 grams and was equivalent to 25 denarii.
– Silver Denarius: The standard silver coin, valued at 16 asses.
– Base Metal Coins: Sestertii and dupondii made of brass (orichalcum), and asses, semises, and quadrantes made of copper were also produced.
- Mint locations: Augustus established mints in various provinces, including Lugdunum (modern Lyon), Colonia Patricia (modern Córdoba), Rome, and others, to produce gold and silver coins.
- Imagery and propaganda: Augustus’ coins were used as a vehicle for imperial propaganda, showcasing his power, accomplishments, and ideology.
– Portraits: Augustus was the first Roman leader to consistently feature his portrait on coins, a practice that continued with subsequent emperors. He insisted on being depicted with a youthful appearance throughout his reign.
– Symbolism: Coins depicted imagery that emphasized key themes such as peace (Pax Augusta), agricultural prosperity (cornucopia), military victories (legionary standards, warships), and his connection to the deified Julius Caesar (bull symbolism, “divi filius” inscription).
– Heir Apparent: Coins also served to promote his intended heirs, Gaius and Lucius, showcasing their potential military and political prowess.
In essence, Augustus’ coins were not merely currency; they were a powerful medium that reflected his reign, conveyed his message to the people, and played a significant role in shaping the identity of the nascent Roman Empire.
What coins depict Augustus?
Thanks for asking. Denarius of Augustus. This silver coin (denarius) of Augustus (27 BC – 14 AD) and Agrippa depicts the heads of Julius Caesar and Augustus facing. The denarius was a small silver coin and the principal silver coin issued in the ancient Roman currency system from the late 3rd century BC until the early 3rd century AD.
What is the gold coin of Augustus?
Aureus of Augustus, Emperor of Rome from Rome. 19 B.C. This very rare aureus is perhaps the only gold coin from the mint of Rome in the United States. It portrays the emperor Augustus on the obverse and a chelys—a lyre fashioned from tortoiseshell—on the reverse.
How much is one Roman coin worth today?
Prices start as low as a hundred dollars for circulated more common issues, while higher-end rarities can bring five or six figures depending upon their quality and rarity. If you ‘re interested in learning more about Roman coinage, you should request our 8-page Ancient coin report.
Is Augustus the son of God coin?
Good point! Roman coins bore a graven image of Caesar Augustus. A caption on the coin read: divi filius, “son of god.” It was believed by Romans that Augustus, the first of the Roman emperors, was divine-conceived by a serpent as Augustus’ mother lay asleep in the temple of Apollo.