Roman Republic Denarius Replica (77 BC) – P. Satrienus: Mars & She-Wolf

This high-quality replica reproduces a silver denarius struck in 77 BC under the moneyer Publius Satrienus, during a period of great political and military upheaval in the Roman Republic.

Obverse (Front)

Depicts the helmeted head of Mars, the Roman god of war, symbolizing valor, discipline, and the Republic’s martial strength.

Reverse (Back)

Shows the she-wolf walking left with raised paw, above the inscription ROMA, with P·SATRIE/NVS in the exergue. The wolf, connected to the legend of Romulus and Remus, symbolizes Rome’s mythical foundation and eternal destiny.

Historical Background

• In 77 BC, Rome was recovering from the aftermath of Sulla’s dictatorship.
• The consul Marcus Aemilius Lepidus attempted to overturn Sulla’s reforms but was defeated near Rome by Pompey the Great and Quintus Lutatius Catulus.
• The same year, Pompey was dispatched to Spain to confront the renegade Roman general Quintus Sertorius, who had established a rival government in Hispania.
• This coin’s imagery emphasized Rome’s divine origins and military readiness at a time when civil strife threatened the Republic.

Why This Replica is Significant

• Faithful reproduction of a coin type issued during a critical turning point in Roman history.
• Connected to the rise of Pompey the Great, one of Rome’s most influential generals.
• Combines the imagery of Mars (war and protection) and the she-wolf (Rome’s mythical foundation).