Political Propaganda on Imperial Coinage in the Age of Augustus

This thesis examines and analyzes political propaganda on Augustan-era Roman imperial coinage by comparing the imagery and text used on coins produced at seven mints located across the Mediterranean. These mints were located at Lugdunum, Augusta Emerita, Caesaraugusta, Colonia Patricia, Nemausus, Samos, and Rome. I focus on these mints due to the messages of Augustan propaganda that were found on their coinage, which were often combined with locally- or regionally-specific provincial messages, that together promoted Augustus’ administration. These coins share important images such as the Capricorn, gateways built as triumphal arches, laurel branches, eagles, Victory, crocodiles, bulls, altars, and Augustus’ stepson and successor, Tiberius. These images sent messages to promote his agenda and highlight all that he had accomplished before and throughout his reign as emperor.  The coinage produced at provincial mints was the most efficient and successful way for Augustus and provincial officials to promote a shared propaganda campaign that ensured the stability of the new form of government the first Roman emperor had created. The success of the political propaganda messages fashioned in the age of Augustus and represented on his coinage is evident in their long-lasting legacy, not only on coinage minted throughout the duration of Roman empire but also on currency used around the world today.