Denarius. (containing ten). Authorized Version, "penny," Matthew 18:28; Matthew 20:2; Matthew 20:9; Matthew 20:13. A Roman silver coin, in the time of our Saviour and the Apostles, worth about 15 cents. It took its name from its being first equal to ten "asses," a number afterwards, increased to sixteen. It was the principal silver coin of the Roman commonwealth. From the parable of the laborers in the vineyard, it would seem that a denarius was then the ordinary pay for a day's labor. Matthew 20:2; Matthew 20:4; Matthew 20:7; Matthew 20:9-10; Matthew 20:13.