Silver Denarius - Roman Republic, c. 103 BC
Moneyer: Q. Minucius M. f. Thermus
Obv: Helmeted head of Mars, left
Rev: Roman Soldier rt, with sword, protecting fallen comrade with shield, fighting Barbarian
(Sear-R197) 20.5mm, 3.92gm
In ancient Roman religion and myth, Mars was the god of war and also an agricultural guardian, a combination characteristic of early Rome. He was second in importance only to Jupiter and he was the most prominent of the military gods in the religion of the Roman army. Most of his festivals were held in March, the month named for him (Latin Martius), and in October, which began the season for military campaigning and ended the season for farming.