Identifying Coins by Legend

Question 1

TRP

Answer 1

The tribunicia potestas was renewed annually; the number of renewals provides the precise date

Question 2

COS

Answer 2

It is often indicated how often the emperor had been consul; the date of the last consulship provides a terminus post quem, the date of the next consulship a terminus ante quem

Question 3

IMP

Answer 3

Victories of imperial armies resulted in imperatorial acclamations; the number of acclamation provides a terminus post quem, the date of the next acclamation a terminus ante quem

Question 4

ARAB(icus)/ ARMEN(iacus)/ BRIT(annicus)/ DAC(icus)/ GER(manicus)/ PART(hicus)/ SARM(aticus)

Answer 4

Victory titles provide a terminus post quem; missing later victory titles may provide a terminus ante quem

Question 5

SC / Senatus Consultor

Answer 5

Indicates coin is base metal, prior to Diocletian’s coin reform