Roman Coin: Denarius

Inv. No.: c047
Provenance: L. Marcius Philippus
Date: c. 56 B.C.
 
Obv.: Head of Ancus Marcius with diadem; on left, augur staff.
ANCVS

Rev.: Equestrian statue on arcade; flower below.
AQVA MR.PHILIPPVS

The coin is a reminder firstly of the aqueduct alleged to have been built by Ancus Marcius, fourth king of Rome. The statue depicts Q. Marcius Rex, who, as praetor in 144 B.C., was commissioned by the Senate to repair old aqueducts and to build a new one which would bring a supply of water to Rome. The statue was erected in commemoration of his work.

The Marcian gens claimed descent from Ancus Marcius. The augur staff possibly refers to the priestly offices and ceremonies instituted by the early kings of Rome. The flower beneath the horse has been identified as the Martialis, a punning allusion to the name Marcia. Juno is said to have become pregnant by Mars through touching this flower. For a similar numismatic pun, see coin 40.

Comparanda:
S 919.