Rev. The Dioscuri on horseback, riding to the right, stars above each head, M. ATIL below. Rarely used in the Empire, the twin gods Castor and Pollux were often used by Republican moneyers. The Dioscuri were much honoured in Italy. Their particular association with Rome was held to date from their participation in the battle of Lake Regilus (496 BC), the first great battle of the young Republic. They are said to have reappeared in Rome after the battle of Pydna in 168 BC, and at Caesar’s funeral. Beneath the twins the city name is displayed, together with the initials of the moneyer, the mint official responsible for the issue of coins.

Obv. Helmeted head of Roma, X below chin, SARAN behind.