Description
An exceptional silver denarius struck during the reign of Emperor Tiberius, the second emperor of Rome and successor to Augustus. The obverse bears the finely engraved laureate portrait of Tiberius facing right, encircled by the imperial legend TI CAESAR DIVI AVG F AVGVSTVS, proclaiming him “Tiberius Caesar, son of the Divine Augustus.”
The reverse features the celebrated seated female figure, traditionally identified as Livia, the mother of Tiberius, portrayed in the guise of Pax (Peace). She is shown seated upon an ornate throne, holding a long scepter and olive branch. The inscription PONTIF MAXIM refers to Tiberius’ office as Pontifex Maximus, the chief priest of the Roman state religion.
Often referred to as the “Tribute Penny,” this iconic denarius is traditionally associated with the coin mentioned in the New Testament in the passage, “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s” (Matthew 22:15–22, Mark 12:13–17, Luke 20:20–26). As one of the most historically significant coins of the Roman Empire, it represents the political stability, religious authority, and enduring legacy of the Julio-Claudian dynasty.
This example displays an attractive portrait, well-preserved legends, and a classic reverse design, making it an outstanding representation of one of antiquity’s most recognizable and sought-after silver coins.
REFERENCE #
CO-RM-1008
CIVILIZATION
Roman, ca. 14 – 37 AD
CONDITION
Mint condition
PRICE
$2500
PROVENANCE
Jerusalem Private Collection
Frequently Asked Questions
The Tiberius silver denarius is historically significant as it represents the political stability and religious authority of the early Roman Empire under Emperor Tiberius. It is famously associated with the 'Tribute Penny' mentioned in the New Testament, symbolizing the intersection of Roman imperial power and early Christian history.
The obverse of the coin features a finely engraved laureate portrait of Emperor Tiberius facing right, with the inscription proclaiming him as the son of the Divine Augustus. The reverse shows a seated female figure identified as Livia, Tiberius' mother, portrayed as Pax (Peace), holding a scepter and olive branch.
The inscription 'PONTIF MAXIM' refers to Tiberius' role as Pontifex Maximus, the chief priest of the Roman state religion. This title emphasized his religious authority in addition to his political power as emperor.
This coin is often called the 'Tribute Penny' because it is traditionally identified as the coin mentioned in the New Testament passages where Jesus says, 'Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's.' It symbolizes the Roman authority to collect taxes and the political context of that era.
This particular Tiberius denarius is in mint condition, featuring an attractive portrait and well-preserved inscriptions. It comes from a private collection in Jerusalem, adding to its historical and collectible value.
The estimated price of this exceptional Tiberius silver denarius is $2,500, reflecting its historical importance, condition, and rarity among collectors of ancient Roman coins.
