Reading Ancient Roman Coin Inscriptions

The ancient Romans followed a fairly standard method for the design of most Roman Imperial coins. Usually the obverse (heads side) showed the portrait of the ruler or his family and abbreviated inscriptions. The inscriptions usually contained his first name, last name, title, and various honorary titles. Below are examples of inscriptions found on portrait and non-portrait coins.

Inscriptions on Portrait coins

Sestertius portrait coin of Domitian

While not entirely realistic, portraits on coins visually identified the emperor and served as a way for people in the far reaches of the empire to see what their ruler looked like. The inscriptions not only named the current ruler, but proclaimed the legitimacy of his authority.

[photo: Silver Denarius of Domitian]
IMPImperator (victorious general), received upon accession
CAESCaesar. Inherited name of the Julian family (Julius Caesar). Used by later emperors to designate heir.
DOMITDomitianus, ruler's name.
AVGAugustus, title of the emperor.
GERMGermanicus, a title honoring military victories in Germany.
COSConsul, a title linked to highest office in Senate, usually held by emperor.
XIReflects number of times office held
CENSCensor, a public office overseeing taxes, morality, the census and membership in various orders.
POPontifex Maximus. Highest priest. The head of state religion.
TPPTribunica Potestate. Tribune of the people. Each renewal indicated by numerals.

Crowns

Crowns were originally a mark of honor for those who had distinguished themselves in battle. The crown worn on imperial coins is one of the many ways of identifying the denomination and possible date of issue.

Inscriptions on Non-Portrait coins

Bronze Quadrans non-portrait coin of Claudius

Coins without portraits were issued in various denominations by the Roman emperors. These non-portrait coins might have commemorated a family member, founding of a city or an important event. Most bear the name of the issuing emperor.

TITiberius
CLAVDIVSClaudius, ruler's name.
CAESARCaesar. Inherited name of the Julian family (Julius Caesar). Used by later emperors to designate heir.
AVGAugustus, title of the emperor.
Obverse designModius: Traditional Roman grain measure symbolizing imperial generosity.
[photo: Bronze Quadrans of Claudius]

Other non-portrait ancient Roman coins