On this type, CRRO 509, The identification of the bird as a totemic of Juno Sospita and thus a crow based on literary sources has been widely accepted (see scholarship snippets below; snippets link to originals). I disagree. The bird is not perched on the goddess’ shoulder but atop her shield. Below her shield the terminus end of a rod may be seen. The bird would appear to any contemporary viewer during the Roman civil wars as legionary eagle, part of the standards of any legion:
In fact legionary eagles and standards are particularly popular as coin types during times of civil war and particularly for campaign coinages. The types were first developed in 82/81 BCE and revitalized and further developed post 49 BCE. It’s presence is explained on this coin by the moneyer’s claim to be an Imperator.
A bit of scholarship on the whole crow thing:
Further note to self: When discussing this series in future be sure to comment on the African Obverses Juxtaposed against the Italic Reverses.
Liv Mariah Yarrow 