A Dictionary of Greek and Roman biography and mythology

plebeian. This gens belonged to the tribus Terentina, and was one of considerable antiquity, and some importance even in early times, since a member of it, Sp. Oppius Cornicen, was one of the second decemvirate, B. C. 450. W e even read of a Vestal virgin of the name of Oppia as early as B. C. 483 (Liv. 2.43). but it is difficult to believe that a plebeian could have filled this dignity at so early a period. None of the Oppii, however, ever obtained the consulship, although the name occurs at intervals in Roman history from the time of the second decemvirate to that of the early emperors. [Compare however OPPIUS, No. 19.] The principal cognomens in this gens are CPITO, CORNICEN or CORNICINUS, and SALINATOR ; but most of the Oppii had no surname. Those of the name of Capito and Salinator are given below. [OPPIUS.] On coins we find the surnames Capito and Salinator.