Silver coin (Drachm) from the ancient Greek city of Larissa in Thessaly, made between 365-356 BCE (about 2,300 years ago), weighing 6.08 grams
This remarkable coin is a stunning example of an ancient silver denarius from the Roman Republic, specifically minted around 50 BCE. Denarii were one of the most widely circulated coins in ancient Rome and served as the backbone of the Roman monetary system during a period of economic expansion. This particular denarius was produced in the city of Rome, which was the heart of the Republic, reflecting the political power and influence held by Rome at the time. The design elements represent the artistry and symbolism prevalent in Roman coinage, offering insights into the society and values of the era.
Coin Description:
Front side: The obverse of the coin features a detailed portrait of the goddess Venus, depicted with a diadem (a type of crown) and an elegant hairstyle. Her expression is serene and dignified, embodying the reverence Romans held for their deities. Surrounding her image are the inscriptions that indicate the mint and the name of the moneyer, who was responsible for the coin's production.
Back side: The reverse of the coin showcases a magnificent design depicting Mars, the god of war, standing proudly in his armor, with a spear in one hand and a shield in the other. This imagery not only signifies the military significance of Rome but also serves to connect the city's civic identity with its gods. The reverse includes inscriptions that complement the imagery, often reflecting the achievements of the moneyer or commemorating significant events.
Technical Details:
Silver (approximately 95% purity)
Denomination: Denarius (the standard silver coin used in the Roman Republic)
Catalog/reference numbers: RSC 20
Certification and grade information: This coin is certified by a leading numismatic grading service and holds a grade of MS (Mint State) 62, indicating minor imperfections consistent with coins that are well preserved but circulated.
Date/period of minting: Circa 50 BCE
Condition:
Exceptionally well-preserved (almost uncirculated) with some original shine still visible and slight rainbow-colored toning
Historical Significance: The denarius minted in 50 BCE is a prime example of the political and economic climate of the Late Roman Republic. During this era, Rome was on the cusp of monumental change, with rising tensions between various political factions, including the Senate and powerful generals such as Julius Caesar. The choice to feature Venus and Mars on the coin suggests a direct appeal to both the civic duty of the citizens and the martial prowess of the Roman state, reinforcing the society's core values. As Rome expanded its territory—from parts of modern-day Italy to regions across Europe—this coin circulated widely, facilitating trade and commerce. The denarius not only served as currency but also as a vehicle of propaganda, reflecting the political propaganda of its time and the society’s divine aspirations.
Ancient Greek Silver Coin from Northern Greece
Age: About 2,400 years old (made around 365-356 BC)
Origin: From the city of Larissa in Thessaly (northern Greece)
Type: Silver coin known as a "drachm" (6.08 grams)
This remarkable coin is a stunning example of an ancient silver denarius from the Roman Republic, specifically minted around 50 BCE. Denarii were one of the most widely circulated coins in ancient Rome and served as the backbone of the Roman monetary system during a period of economic expansion. This particular denarius was produced in the city of Rome, which was the heart of the Republic, reflecting the political power and influence held by Rome at the time. The design elements represent the artistry and symbolism prevalent in Roman coinage, offering insights into the society and values of the era.
Coin Description:
Front side: The obverse of the coin features a detailed portrait of the goddess Venus, depicted with a diadem (a type of crown) and an elegant hairstyle. Her expression is serene and dignified, embodying the reverence Romans held for their deities. Surrounding her image are the inscriptions that indicate the mint and the name of the moneyer, who was responsible for the coin's production.
Back side: The reverse of the coin showcases a magnificent design depicting Mars, the god of war, standing proudly in his armor, with a spear in one hand and a shield in the other. This imagery not only signifies the military significance of Rome but also serves to connect the city's civic identity with its gods. The reverse includes inscriptions that complement the imagery, often reflecting the achievements of the moneyer or commemorating significant events.
Technical Details:
Silver (approximately 95% purity)
Denomination: Denarius (the standard silver coin used in the Roman Republic)
Catalog/reference numbers: RSC 20
Certification and grade information: This coin is certified by a leading numismatic grading service and holds a grade of MS (Mint State) 62, indicating minor imperfections consistent with coins that are well preserved but circulated.
Date/period of minting: Circa 50 BCE
Condition:
Exceptionally well-preserved (almost uncirculated) with some original shine still visible and slight rainbow-colored toning
Historical Significance: The denarius minted in 50 BCE is a prime example of the political and economic climate of the Late Roman Republic. During this era, Rome was on the cusp of monumental change, with rising tensions between various political factions, including the Senate and powerful generals such as Julius Caesar. The choice to feature Venus and Mars on the coin suggests a direct appeal to both the civic duty of the citizens and the martial prowess of the Roman state, reinforcing the society's core values. As Rome expanded its territory—from parts of modern-day Italy to regions across Europe—this coin circulated widely, facilitating trade and commerce. The denarius not only served as currency but also as a vehicle of propaganda, reflecting the political propaganda of its time and the society’s divine aspirations.
Ancient Greek Silver Coin from Northern Greece
Age: About 2,400 years old (made around 365-356 BC)
Origin: From the city of Larissa in Thessaly (northern Greece)
Type: Silver coin known as a "drachm" (6.08 grams)
This remarkable coin is a stunning example of an ancient silver denarius from the Roman Republic, specifically minted around 50 BCE. Denarii were one of the most widely circulated coins in ancient Rome and served as the backbone of the Roman monetary system during a period of economic expansion. This particular denarius was produced in the city of Rome, which was the heart of the Republic, reflecting the political power and influence held by Rome at the time. The design elements represent the artistry and symbolism prevalent in Roman coinage, offering insights into the society and values of the era.
Coin Description:
Front side: The obverse of the coin features a detailed portrait of the goddess Venus, depicted with a diadem (a type of crown) and an elegant hairstyle. Her expression is serene and dignified, embodying the reverence Romans held for their deities. Surrounding her image are the inscriptions that indicate the mint and the name of the moneyer, who was responsible for the coin's production.
Back side: The reverse of the coin showcases a magnificent design depicting Mars, the god of war, standing proudly in his armor, with a spear in one hand and a shield in the other. This imagery not only signifies the military significance of Rome but also serves to connect the city's civic identity with its gods. The reverse includes inscriptions that complement the imagery, often reflecting the achievements of the moneyer or commemorating significant events.
Technical Details:
Silver (approximately 95% purity)
Denomination: Denarius (the standard silver coin used in the Roman Republic)
Catalog/reference numbers: RSC 20
Certification and grade information: This coin is certified by a leading numismatic grading service and holds a grade of MS (Mint State) 62, indicating minor imperfections consistent with coins that are well preserved but circulated.
Date/period of minting: Circa 50 BCE
Condition:
Exceptionally well-preserved (almost uncirculated) with some original shine still visible and slight rainbow-colored toning
Historical Significance: The denarius minted in 50 BCE is a prime example of the political and economic climate of the Late Roman Republic. During this era, Rome was on the cusp of monumental change, with rising tensions between various political factions, including the Senate and powerful generals such as Julius Caesar. The choice to feature Venus and Mars on the coin suggests a direct appeal to both the civic duty of the citizens and the martial prowess of the Roman state, reinforcing the society's core values. As Rome expanded its territory—from parts of modern-day Italy to regions across Europe—this coin circulated widely, facilitating trade and commerce. The denarius not only served as currency but also as a vehicle of propaganda, reflecting the political propaganda of its time and the society’s divine aspirations.
Ancient Greek Silver Coin from Northern Greece
Age: About 2,400 years old (made around 365-356 BC)
Origin: From the city of Larissa in Thessaly (northern Greece)
Type: Silver coin known as a "drachm" (6.08 grams)
