Roman Denarius Coin

Inv. No.: c058
Date: 20-16 B.C.
Weight: 3.65g
 
Obv.: Augustus, bareheaded.
CAESAR AVGVSTVS

Rev.: Oak wreath.
OB CIVIS SERVATOS

The coin commemorates the Senate bestowal on Augustus of the corona ciuica in 27 B.C. This was traditionally an oak-wreath, awarded to Romans for saving a citizen life. The Senate commonly conferred it on an emperor at the time of his accession. The coin was issued in Spain by a mint under the sole control of Augustus. The object of the mint was not merely to furnish soldiers? pay but to produce a universally accepted coinage for the Empire. The head is large and in high relief. The features are rather idealised.

Comparanda:
RIC, Augustus 290.