
The month of January is the start of the new year and a refresh on our yearly hunt for coins. But how did January get its name? It comes from the Roman god Janus, whose dual-faced head looks forward and backwards in representation of his role in Roman society. In Roman times, he was said to look over passages, change, transitions, and time (beginnings and endings).
With the transition from December to January, and the change from the old year to the new, this is the perfect name. While this is perfect for modern times, the Roman new year, in fact, started in March, named after the Roman god Mars. The importance of the month, however, was not lost on the Romans; the important official position of the Consulship began in January of each year. Two consuls elected each year would have a great influence and power over Roman society (laws, religion and the military). The office of Consul dominated the Roman Republic and led into the Roman Empire.
During the Roman Empire, the Emperors would usually hold the title of consul for consecutive years while allowing another high-ranking member to have the position alongside them. Many Roman coins can be dated to a specific year by knowing when an Emperor held a specific consular year.
Stack’s Bowers Galleries in Boston offers a variety of ancient coins ranging from ancient Greek to ancient Rome to the Byzantine Empire. Our staff can assist you in collecting ancient coins whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned collector. Our team of numismatists here in Boston are ready to help you find that rare coin! To contact us for further inquiries or to make an appointment for any numismatic inquiries please call 617-843-8343 or [email protected]. We hope to see you soon!