3.3 Coinage and numismatic imagery
8 min read•august 21, 2024
Augustus revolutionized Roman coinage, using it a powerful tool. His coins featured idealized portraits, , and architectural monuments, all carefully designed to communicate his political and cultural program.
Augustan coinage reforms standardized weights and introduced new denominations, creating a unified monetary system across the empire. These coins now serve as valuable historical evidence, providing insights into the economic, political, and cultural aspects of Augustan Rome.
Types of Augustan coinage
- Augustan coinage played a crucial role in shaping the visual culture of ancient Rome
- Coins served as powerful tools for propaganda and dissemination of imperial ideology
- Various types of coins circulated throughout the empire, each with distinct purposes and values
Gold and silver coins
Top images from around the web for Gold and silver coins
Roman currency - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Augustus Aureus infobox version.png - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
Roman currency - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Augustus Aureus infobox version.png - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 2
Top images from around the web for Gold and silver coins
Roman currency - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Augustus Aureus infobox version.png - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
Roman currency - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Augustus Aureus infobox version.png - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 2
- , the gold coin, highest denomination in the Roman monetary system
- , the silver coin, most common for daily transactions
- , half the value of a denarius, used for smaller purchases
- Precious metal content determined the intrinsic value of these coins
Bronze and copper coins
- , large brass coin with high artistic quality
- As, copper coin for everyday small transactions
- , smallest denomination, made of copper or orichalcum
- Bronze and copper coins often featured more elaborate designs due to larger size
Provincial vs imperial coins
- Imperial coins minted in Rome, circulated throughout the empire
- Provincial coins produced in local mints, designs reflected regional themes
- (RCC) issued by Roman colonies, blended local and imperial imagery
- Provincial coins often retained Greek influences in style and iconography
Numismatic imagery themes
- Augustan coinage imagery reflected the emperor's political and cultural program
- Coin designs served as a visual language to communicate imperial ideals
- Themes on coins evolved throughout Augustus' reign, reflecting changing priorities
Portraits of Augustus
- Idealized youthful portrait of Augustus on obverse of many coins
- Gradual aging of Augustus' portrait over time, reflecting his long reign
- added to portraits symbolizing and divine favor
- Inscriptions accompanying portraits emphasized Augustus' titles and achievements
Imperial family depictions
- Livia, Augustus' wife, portrayed as personification of virtues (Pax, Justitia)
- Gaius and Lucius Caesar, adopted heirs, featured on coins to promote succession
- Agrippa, Augustus' close friend and son-in-law, depicted wearing naval crown
- Family members' portraits reinforced dynastic aspirations of the Julio-Claudian line
Mythological figures
- , Augustus' patron deity, prominently featured on many coin reverses
- , mythical ancestor of the Julian family, emphasizing
- (the Avenger) depicted to commemorate military victories
- Mythological scenes often alluded to contemporary events or imperial policies
Architectural monuments
- , built to fulfill Augustus' vow, featured on coin reverses
- (Ara Pacis) depicted to celebrate and prosperity
- Triumphal arches commemorating military victories represented on coins
- Representations of architectural monuments on coins provide evidence for lost structures
Symbolism in coin designs
- Augustan coinage employed a rich visual language of symbols and allegories
- Coin designs carefully crafted to convey complex political and ideological messages
- Symbolism on coins reinforced Augustus' role as restorer of peace and traditional values
Political messages
- , Augustus' zodiac sign, symbolized his destined rule
- (corona civica) represented Augustus as savior of Roman citizens
- (dextrarum iunctio) symbolized concord and loyalty
- depicted abundance and prosperity under Augustan rule
Religious iconography
- (augur's staff) emphasized Augustus' role as chief priest
- (ritual ladle) represented Augustus' membership in priestly colleges
- Temple facades on coins highlighted Augustus' religious building program
- Sacrificial implements depicted reinforced the importance of traditional Roman religion
Military achievements
- (Nike/Victoria) commemorated specific military triumphs
- (trophy of arms) symbolized conquest of foreign enemies
- Naval imagery (ships, anchors) celebrated naval victories ()
- Captives or personifications of conquered provinces illustrated territorial expansion
Dynastic propaganda
- (Julian Star) linked Augustus to his deified adoptive father, Julius Caesar
- associated Augustus with Alexander the Great and divine kingship
- Adoption scenes of Gaius and Lucius Caesar promoted imperial succession plans
- Portraits of Agrippa emphasized stability through loyal supporters and family ties
Minting process and distribution
- Coin production in Augustan Rome involved complex organizational structures
- techniques evolved to improve efficiency and maintain quality control
- Distribution patterns of coins reflected economic and political realities of the empire
Roman mint locations
- Primary imperial mint located in Rome, responsible for gold and silver coinage
- Lugdunum (modern Lyon) established as secondary mint for western provinces
- Local mints in provinces produced bronze coins for regional circulation
- Mobile military mints accompanied legions on campaigns
Coin production techniques
- Die- method used to produce coins with consistent designs
- Skilled engravers (celators) created master dies for coin production
- Quality control measures implemented to ensure weight and purity standards
- Use of mechanical screw presses increased efficiency in later periods
Circulation patterns
- Gold and silver coins widely distributed throughout the empire
- Bronze coins tended to circulate more locally due to lower value
- Coin hoards provide evidence for circulation and economic activity
- Wear patterns on coins indicate duration and intensity of circulation
Coinage reforms under Augustus
- Augustus implemented significant reforms to standardize and stabilize Roman coinage
- Reforms aimed to establish a unified monetary system across the empire
- Changes in coinage reflected broader economic and administrative policies
Standardization of weights
- Fixed weight standards established for gold, silver, and bronze denominations
- Aureus standardized at 1/40th of a Roman pound (about 8 grams)
- Denarius weight set at 1/84th of a Roman pound (about 3.9 grams)
- Strict quality control measures implemented to maintain weight consistency
Introduction of new denominations
- Sestertius introduced as large brass coin, valued at 1/4 denarius
- Dupondius, worth two asses, added to facilitate small transactions
- Quadrans, smallest bronze denomination, replaced earlier semis
- New denominations improved flexibility of the monetary system
Control of precious metal content
- Fineness of gold coins maintained at high levels (nearly pure)
- Silver content of denarii slightly reduced to about 97-98% purity
- Strict regulations imposed on mints to prevent debasement
- Regular assaying of coins ensured adherence to established standards
Coins as historical evidence
- Augustan coins serve as valuable primary sources for understanding the period
- Numismatic evidence complements and sometimes challenges literary accounts
- Coins provide insights into economic, political, and cultural aspects of Augustan Rome
Dating of events
- Consular dates on coins help establish chronology of Augustus' reign
- Commemorative issues mark specific events (victories, building dedications)
- Changes in titulature on coins reflect evolution of Augustus' official status
- Coin hoards provide terminus post quem for archaeological contexts
Reconstruction of lost monuments
- Depictions of buildings on coins aid in reconstructing destroyed structures
- Architectural details on coins inform understanding of ancient building techniques
- Coin imagery sometimes provides only surviving evidence for certain monuments
- Numismatic representations help visualize the urban landscape of Augustan Rome
Confirmation of literary sources
- Coin designs often corroborate events described in ancient texts
- Numismatic evidence can resolve discrepancies between conflicting literary accounts
- Inscriptions on coins verify titles and honors mentioned by ancient authors
- Portraiture on coins complements literary descriptions of imperial appearance
Augustan coins vs predecessors
- Augustan coinage marked a significant departure from earlier Roman monetary traditions
- Innovations in design and production reflected broader cultural and political changes
- Augustan coins synthesized various influences to create a distinct imperial style
Republican coin designs
- Shift from family-specific imagery to centralized imperial iconography
- Reduction in variety of reverse types compared to late Republican period
- Standardization of obverse portraits, focusing on Augustus and imperial family
- Retention of some Republican motifs (e.g., personifications) in new contexts
Hellenistic influences
- Adoption of ruler portraiture on obverse, following Hellenistic royal coinage
- Incorporation of Greek-style allegorical figures (Victory, Pax) on reverses
- Use of Greek titles and epithets in coin inscriptions (e.g., SEBASTOS)
- Stylistic influences from Hellenistic art in portrait and figure representation
Innovations in Augustan coinage
- Introduction of consistent imperial titulature on coin legends
- Development of a cohesive visual program across different denominations
- Integration of architectural imagery as a major theme on coin reverses
- Establishment of a centralized control over coin production and design
Collecting and studying Augustan coins
- Augustan coins have been prized by collectors and scholars for centuries
- Modern numismatic research combines traditional methods with new technologies
- Study of Augustan coinage contributes to broader understanding of Roman history and culture
Major museum collections
- British Museum in London houses extensive collection of Augustan coins
- Bibliothèque nationale de France in Paris holds significant numismatic holdings
- American Numismatic Society in New York specializes in ancient coinage
- Vatican Museums possess important examples of Augustan monetary art
Numismatic research methods
- Die studies analyze production patterns and mint organization
- Metallurgical analysis determines composition and production techniques
- Statistical approaches examine circulation patterns and economic implications
- Digital imaging technologies enhance study of wear patterns and countermarks
Forgeries and authenticity issues
- Long history of coin forgery, including ancient counterfeits
- Modern techniques (XRF, 3D scanning) aid in detecting sophisticated fakes
- Importance of provenance and collecting history in establishing authenticity
- Ethical considerations in the acquisition and study of ancient coins
Legacy of Augustan coinage
- Augustan monetary system laid foundation for imperial Roman coinage
- Numismatic imagery established enduring visual language of imperial power
- Study of Augustan coins continues to inform understanding of early imperial period
Influence on later imperial coins
- Augustan portrait style remained influential throughout Julio-Claudian dynasty
- Thematic elements (personifications, architectural motifs) adopted by successors
- Organizational structure of mints and production methods continued
- Concept of coinage as propaganda tool fully embraced by later emperors
Modern numismatic scholarship
- Augustan coinage central to development of Roman numismatics as discipline
- Ongoing debates about interpretation of imagery and inscriptions
- Interdisciplinary approaches combining numismatics with archaeology and history
- Digital databases and online resources expanding access to numismatic material
Coins in Augustan art history
- Numismatic imagery provides context for understanding other Augustan art forms
- Coin designs offer insights into lost paintings and sculptures of the period
- Stylistic analysis of coin portraits informs study of Augustan sculptural portraits
- Coinage reflects broader artistic trends and innovations of the Augustan age
Key Terms to Review (40)
Altar of Pax Augusta: The Altar of Pax Augusta, also known as the Ara Pacis Augustae, is a monument in Rome dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace, and commissioned by Emperor Augustus in 13 BCE to celebrate the peace and prosperity achieved during his rule. This altar serves not only as a religious site but also as a powerful symbol of Augustus' authority and the imperial ideology that underscored his reign.
Apollo: Apollo is a significant figure in Roman mythology, known as the god of music, arts, knowledge, and the sun. He symbolizes many ideals that were important to Augustan Rome, connecting to Augustus' portrayal in official art and coinage, and reflects the broader themes of Augustan ideology, sacred landscapes, imperial iconography, and mythological allegories.
As: The as was a bronze coin used in ancient Rome, originally worth one Roman pound of copper but later diminished in value. It became a key part of the Roman monetary system and featured important imagery and symbols that reflected the political and social values of the time, especially during the Augustan period.
Aureus: The aureus was a gold coin used in Ancient Rome, first introduced in the late Roman Republic and widely circulated during the Empire. It was a symbol of wealth and power, often used to pay for large transactions, military salaries, and public works. The aureus also played an important role in reflecting political propaganda and the achievements of emperors through its coinage imagery.
Battle of Actium: The Battle of Actium was a decisive naval confrontation that occurred in 31 BCE between the forces of Octavian and those of Mark Antony and Cleopatra. This pivotal battle marked the end of the Roman Republic and set the stage for Octavian’s rise to power, leading to the establishment of the Roman Empire.
C. silius: C. Silius is a prominent figure in Roman history, notably recognized as a Roman senator and general during the late Republic and early Imperial periods. He is particularly connected to the context of coinage and numismatic imagery due to his role in issuing coins that reflected political power and prestige, which were critical in promoting imperial propaganda and solidifying authority.
Capitoline She-Wolf: The Capitoline She-Wolf is a bronze statue that represents the legendary she-wolf that nursed the twin founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus. This iconic sculpture symbolizes the origins of Rome and embodies themes of strength, survival, and maternal care, becoming a powerful emblem in Roman culture and art.
Capricorn: Capricorn is the astrological sign associated with the zodiacal constellation of the same name, represented by a goat, which symbolizes ambition and determination. In the context of Roman coinage and imagery, Capricorn holds significant meaning as it relates to Augustan ideology and the promotion of power through celestial associations, emphasizing a divine connection to authority and governance.
Clasped hands motif: The clasped hands motif is a symbolic representation found in various forms of art, particularly in Roman coinage, where two hands are depicted coming together in a gesture of unity or agreement. This imagery serves to convey themes of concord, reconciliation, and the establishment of peace or alliances, reflecting the political and social dynamics of the time.
Cornucopia: A cornucopia is a symbol of abundance and nourishment, often depicted as a horn overflowing with produce, flowers, or other good things. This imagery is closely associated with prosperity and the idea of bounty, making it a powerful motif in various forms of art and iconography. In the context of coinage and numismatic imagery, the cornucopia signifies wealth and the flourishing economy under Augustus. Similarly, it represents Augustan ideology, reinforcing messages of peace, stability, and abundance brought by the regime.
Currency reform: Currency reform refers to the process of changing a country's monetary system, often involving the modification or replacement of its currency. This can include altering the value of the currency, introducing new coins and notes, or adjusting the overall monetary policy to stabilize the economy. In the context of ancient Rome, currency reform played a significant role in economic management, particularly during periods of inflation and instability.
Denarius: The denarius was a silver coin used throughout the Roman Empire, first minted around 211 BCE. This coin became a standard unit of currency and played a vital role in trade, commerce, and taxation in Rome. Its design and imagery often reflected political propaganda, portraying emperors, gods, and significant events to reinforce authority and cultural identity.
Divine lineage: Divine lineage refers to the belief or representation that certain individuals or families have ancestry connected to gods or divine beings, often used to legitimize power and authority. This concept is crucial in understanding how leaders, particularly in ancient Rome, would establish their legitimacy by claiming descent from gods or mythological heroes. By promoting this connection, rulers could enhance their status and foster loyalty among their subjects through a shared sense of divine favor and providence.
Idealized portrait: An idealized portrait is an artistic representation that emphasizes perfection, beauty, and often timeless qualities, rather than a true likeness of the subject. These portraits were used to convey certain values and ideals, such as virtue, strength, or divinity, often by exaggerating favorable features or reducing flaws. In the context of coinage and numismatic imagery, these portraits served to enhance the status of the figures depicted, typically rulers or deities, by presenting them in a way that embodied cultural ideals.
Imperial portrait: An imperial portrait is a representation of an emperor, typically crafted in sculpture or painting, that conveys the ruler's identity, authority, and idealized image. These portraits served not only as a means of personal representation but also as tools of propaganda to communicate the power and legitimacy of the emperor to the populace. They played a significant role in shaping public perception and reinforcing the emperor's status within the empire.
Laurel Wreath: The laurel wreath is a circular arrangement of interlocking branches and leaves from the bay laurel tree, traditionally associated with victory and honor in ancient Rome. It symbolized triumph, status, and was often used to denote authority, linking it to various aspects of Roman culture and power.
Lituus: The lituus is a curved staff or wand that symbolizes authority and is often associated with augury in ancient Roman religion. This tool was used by augurs, who were priests responsible for interpreting the will of the gods by observing the flight patterns of birds and other signs. The presence of the lituus in various artistic representations highlights its importance as a symbol of political and religious power during the time of Augustus, linking it to official portrait types, coinage, and sacred landscapes.
Mars Ultor: Mars Ultor, or Mars the Avenger, is a significant Roman deity associated with vengeance and war, particularly in the context of Augustus' political and military propaganda. This figure was central to the ideological framework of Augustus’ regime, symbolizing not only martial power but also divine favor in avenging Julius Caesar’s assassination. The imagery and iconography of Mars Ultor were used to legitimize Augustus' rule and promote his military victories.
Minting: Minting is the process of producing coins, which involves creating standardized currency for trade and commerce. This process not only includes the physical production of coins but also the establishment of their design, value, and distribution. Minting plays a crucial role in shaping economic systems, as it helps facilitate transactions and establishes trust in currency through the use of consistent imagery and quality.
Mythological figures: Mythological figures are characters from ancient myths that embody cultural narratives, representing ideals, moral lessons, and human experiences. In the context of Roman art and architecture, these figures are often depicted to convey power, divine favor, and the legitimacy of rulers, playing a crucial role in both coinage and architectural sculpture.
Oak wreath: An oak wreath is a symbol of victory and honor, often depicted in ancient Roman art and coinage. It represents achievement and valor, particularly in military contexts, and was frequently awarded to victors in competitions or battles. In numismatic imagery, the oak wreath served as a powerful emblem to convey the prestige of the emperor or military leaders, linking their successes to the natural world and its enduring qualities.
Pax Romana: Pax Romana, meaning 'Roman Peace,' refers to a 200-year period of relative stability and prosperity across the Roman Empire that began with the reign of Augustus in 27 BCE and lasted until around 180 CE. This era is characterized by reduced military expansion, a flourishing economy, and significant advancements in arts and culture, which are critical to understanding the transformation of Rome during and after the establishment of the imperial system.
Peace: Peace, in the context of Augustan Rome, refers to the state of tranquility and stability achieved under Augustus' rule following years of civil war. This concept is intricately linked to the cultural and political projects initiated during his reign, emphasizing harmony, prosperity, and the restoration of order through monumental architecture, art, and state propaganda.
Propaganda: Propaganda refers to the systematic promotion of ideas, information, or beliefs with the intent to influence public opinion and support for a particular agenda. In ancient Rome, especially during the Augustan period, propaganda was used to legitimize power, communicate achievements, and reinforce the status of the emperor and the Roman state.
Quadrans: A quadrans is a small bronze coin that was used in ancient Rome, valued at one-fourth of an as, which was the standard Roman currency. This coin played a significant role in daily transactions and was often associated with low-value exchanges. The quadrans also reflects the socio-economic conditions of the time, illustrating the importance of small denomination coins in everyday life and commerce.
Quinarius: A quinarius is a type of Roman coin that typically featured a value of five asses. It was often made of silver and was part of the broader Roman monetary system. This coin played an important role in everyday transactions, allowing for smaller purchases, and its imagery often reflected the political and cultural narratives of the time, making it significant in understanding the economic landscape of Rome.
Roma Personified: Roma personified refers to the allegorical representation of the city of Rome as a female figure, embodying the virtues, power, and identity of the city. This representation was commonly used in art and imagery, particularly on coinage, to evoke a sense of pride and unity among the citizens while also emphasizing Rome's strength and authority during the Augustan period.
Roman Colonial Coinage: Roman colonial coinage refers to the money minted in Roman colonies, particularly during the expansion of the Roman Empire from the late Republic into the early Empire. This type of coinage often features local imagery and inscriptions, reflecting the cultural identity of the province while also asserting Roman authority. These coins served both economic and political purposes, facilitating trade and reinforcing the Roman presence in newly acquired territories.
Sergius Silus: Sergius Silus was a Roman coin designer and official during the early Imperial period, notably associated with the minting of coins in the context of Augustus' reign. His work contributed to the development of numismatic imagery, which played a significant role in propagating political messages and cultural values through visual representation on currency.
Sestertius: The sestertius was a large bronze coin used in ancient Rome, originally worth two and a half asses. It became one of the most important coins in Roman currency, playing a crucial role in trade and economics. The design of the sestertius often featured significant political figures and imagery, making it a key medium for propagating messages about the state and its leaders.
Sidus iulium: The sidus iulium, or 'Julian star,' is a celestial symbol associated with Augustus, representing divine approval and legitimacy for his rule. This star was said to have appeared at the time of Julius Caesar's assassination, marking Caesar as a god and suggesting Augustus’s lineage as divinely sanctioned, thus enhancing Augustus's position as emperor.
Simpulum: A simpulum is a type of ancient Roman vessel, typically a ladle or spoon, used for ritual purposes, particularly in religious ceremonies. This object often symbolizes the act of offering and is crucial in understanding the rituals associated with Augustan Rome and the ideological imagery that accompanied them.
Sphinx motif: The sphinx motif is a decorative element featuring the mythical creature known as the sphinx, typically represented as a lion with a human head. In Roman art and coinage, the sphinx symbolizes wisdom, protection, and the connection between the earthly and the divine. Its use in numismatic imagery often conveyed messages of power and authority, linking the ruler or state to the divine realm and showcasing cultural influences from Egypt.
State propaganda: State propaganda refers to the strategic communication by a governing authority to influence public perception and behavior, often portraying the state in a positive light while promoting specific political, social, or cultural ideologies. It plays a crucial role in shaping collective memory and identity, using various forms of media to disseminate messages that align with the state's goals. This form of communication can take on numerous manifestations, including visual imagery and symbolic representations that resonate with the populace.
Striking: In numismatics, 'striking' refers to the process of creating coins by applying pressure to a blank metal disc, known as a planchet, using dies that bear the design of the coin. This process not only produces the physical coins but also imparts specific imagery and symbols that convey political, cultural, and economic messages. The quality and characteristics of the strike can significantly affect the coin's aesthetic appeal and historical significance.
Temple of Mars Ultor: The Temple of Mars Ultor was a temple in Rome dedicated to the avenging aspect of Mars, built by Augustus in the Forum of Augustus. It served not only as a religious site but also as a monument celebrating Augustus's victory over his enemies, embodying the political propaganda and ideologies of the Augustan regime.
Tropaeum: A tropaeum is a monument erected to commemorate military victories, particularly those achieved by Roman generals. These structures often featured spoils of war, such as weapons and armor, and served both as a reminder of triumph and as a symbol of power for the ruling elite. The tropaeum was not only a physical marker of conquest but also played a role in propaganda, reinforcing the glory of Rome and its leaders.
Venus Genetrix: Venus Genetrix is a title given to the Roman goddess Venus, emphasizing her role as the mother of the Roman people, particularly in connection to Julius Caesar and the Julian family. This concept reinforced the idea of divine lineage and connection to the gods, which was central to Augustan propaganda and identity.
Victory: Victory refers to the achievement of success in a conflict, competition, or struggle, often celebrated as a significant event in history. In the context of Roman culture, victory was not just about military conquest; it was a symbol of power, divine favor, and political legitimacy that permeated various aspects of public life, from monumental architecture to numismatic imagery.
Victory goddess: The victory goddess, often depicted as a winged figure representing triumph and success, was a significant symbol in ancient Rome. She embodied the ideals of victory in both military and personal achievements, often used to promote the power and divine favor of rulers through various artistic representations. The goddess was frequently depicted on coinage and monuments, serving as a reminder of the victories won and the glory associated with them.