The Tribute Penny

The Tribute Penny is famously mentioned by Jesus in the New Testament. Its reverse design proclaims the continuation of the Augustan Peace (Pax Romana), depicting the seated goddess Pax holding a scepter and olive branch. However, the figure is widely interpreted as also resembling Livia, the aging mother of Emperor Tiberius. In this sense, the coin not only celebrates Rome's era of peace but may also serve as a subtle tribute to Livia herself-acknowledging her enduring influence within the imperial family and her possible role in securing Tiberius' rise to the throne.