The Good, the Bad, and the Moneyer

Now that we’ve seen what’s depicted on the coin and its connection to its moneyer, maybe we can try to answer some of our questions.

Lepidus chose to depict the Vestal Virgin Aemilia and his family’s basilica on his coin. Which is somewhat puzzling, because both have highly controversial associations for the common Roman citizen. If Lepidus wanted to promote himself by reminding the Romans of his great ancestors, then why choose the ones that are linked to bad parts of Roman history?

Frankly, there’s no clear answer. Maybe he hoped that people would rather remember only the good stuff, like the miraculous rekindling of the eternal flame and the wonderful building they passed by on the Roman forum every day. Maybe he just liked the motives. Or maybe he just wanted to show that his family was powerful enough to overcome these scandals without losing any power or wealth.

We’ll never know. But you’re free to form your own opinion. Before you leave, there's more information on Marcus Aemilius Lepidus in the longread.