Augustus

Denarius · Silver

RIC I² 367

Obverse

Bust of Venus, diademed, draped, right

Reverse

Simpulum and lituus, above, tripod and patera, below

Historical Note

The simpulum (sacrificial ladle), lituus (augural staff), tripod, and patera (libation bowl) are the four principal priestly implements of Roman religious office. Together they represent Augustus's accumulation of priestly roles — he held multiple priesthoods simultaneously, including the title of pontifex maximus from 12 BC. This type presents his religious authority alongside his military and political power.