Roman Imperial Coins
AUGUSTUS (27 BC-14 AD). Denarius. Uncertain Spanish mint, possibly Colonia Patricia.
Obv: AVGVSTO CAESARI.
Laureate head left.
Rev: S P - Q R.
Temple of Mars Ultor: round-domed, tetra-style temple set on podium of three steps, within which is a chariot right, carrying an aquila and miniature galloping horses.
RIC² 120.
Condition: very fine/Good fine.
Weight: 3.43 g.
Diameter: 20 mm.
Historically important type. The returned Roman standards long held by the Parthians were placed in the temple of Mars Ultor (Mars the Avenger). The temple to Mars Ultor was promised by Augustus in 19 BC but was actually only dedicated in 2 BC. That temple, whose foundation still exists in the forum of Augustus, is rectangular in shape. Here the temple is clearly shown as a round structure. Speculation as to whether this was a temporary home for the standards is mixed with the possibility that the original temple design envisioned by Augustus may have been round but was later changed to fit into the location where it was built. In either case we know the final resting place for the returned standards was a temple with a rectangular base. This temple would become the departure point for Roman troops departing for battle after proper prayers/sacrifices were completed.