Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 68-69 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.4 g |
| Diameter | 18.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC I#6, OCRE#ric.1(2).cw.6 |
| Obverse description | Female bust, diademed, right; hair in queue above neck. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
BON EVENT (Translation: Bonus Eventus. Good success.) |
| Reverse description | Clasped right hands holding winged caduceus. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
PACI P R (Translation: Paci Populus Romanus. The peace of the Roman people.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (68-69) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1010671520 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Denarius PACI P R, minted in 68-69 AD, encapsulates the tumultuous "Year of the Four Emperors." Issued under Emperor Galba, who ascended after Nero's suicide, the coin’s legend "PACI P R" (Peace of the Roman People) was a deliberate message. Galba, a respected senator, sought to restore stability and traditional Roman values amidst widespread civil unrest. This coinage served as vital propaganda, promising an end to the chaos and a return to peace after Nero's tyrannical reign and the subsequent power vacuum.
Artistry: While specific engravers remain anonymous, this Denarius reflects the distinctive Roman imperial minting style of the period. The obverse likely features a realistic, unidealized portrait of Galba, emphasizing his age and gravitas, a common trait in Roman portraiture designed to convey authority and experience. The reverse depicts the goddess Pax, personification of Peace, typically holding an an olive branch and a caduceus or cornucopia. Her classical depiction reinforces the imperial message of tranquility and prosperity that Galba aimed to project for his nascent reign.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing approximately 3.4 grams with an 18.5 mm diameter, this Denarius adheres to the standard specifications for the era, though weights could fluctuate during periods of crisis. For grading, key high-points on the obverse include Galba’s hair, ear, and the highest points of his facial features. On the reverse, attention is paid to the drapery folds of Pax, her attributes, and any facial details. Strike quality can vary due to the urgent minting conditions of the civil war, with centering and die wear being important considerations for overall preservation.