This denarius depicts Juno Sospita, one of the oldest and most martial aspects of Rome’s queen of the gods. On the obverse, her head faces right, wearing the skin of a goat, its horns framing her face. This attribute identifies her as Juno Sospita, meaning “the Savior,” a protective deity whose cult was centered at Lanuvium, where she was believed to guard the community in times of danger.
Juno Sospita differs markedly from the later, more serene representations of Juno. She is shown as vigilant and warlike, embodying protection through strength rather than benevolence alone. The goat’s skin, an archaic symbol of vitality and defense, emphasizes her role as guardian of women, childbirth, and the Roman state. The strong, restrained portrait reflects the Roman Republic’s attachment to ancestral religious traditions during a period of political instability.
The reverse presents Juno Sospita riding a biga to the right, holding a spear and shield. The scene conveys motion and authority, showing the goddess as an active protector who intervenes in moments of conflict. Her appearance in a chariot associates her with military success and divine oversight, reinforcing her role as a defender of Rome.