included scenes of religious rites, processionals, Augustus and his family, (thus demonstrating his own piety), as well as conveying a sense of peace and Roman pride. The revitalization of Romes religious buildings was an enormous step in the religious revival of the Empire, and the healthy condition of the shrines confirmed for observers the healthy condition of the state as restored by Augustus. Word of this achievement was widespread; coins spread throughout the empire depicting the refreshed and attractive monuments. Ancient Roman coins were often used to convey political ideals, and Augustus turned this tradition to his own purposes by stamping significant types on the coins such as peace and victory. Augustus not only commissioned coins which spread word about his achievements, but also those which associated him with the gods-gods which he was making such an effort to revive. Many coins depict pictures or symbols of the gods, such as Apollo, and by his association with these religious entities, Augustus was able to subtlety remind people of his power and greatness. Although the revitalization of Romes religious monuments did wonders to instill a renewed sense of faith in the state, Augustus realized that to truly revive Roman religion, he had to also awaken an interest in worship.Augustus revival of traditional religion in the state was due in large part to the reconstruction of public religion. During the decades of civil war, many religious rites had been curtailed or discontinued. Throughout the years of his reign, Augustus enhanced the status of various religious groups, promoted the renewal of lapsed ceremonies, and encouraged the institution of rites to honor his achievements. He revived the priesthoods, and his eventual appointment as pontifex maximus, saw him become not only the secular head of the Roman Empire, but the religious leader as well. Augustus used religion to reorganize the state and to establish his ...
