1 Aureus - Imitating Marcus Aurelius, 161-180, and Commodus, 177-192 (250-325) front 1 Aureus - Imitating Marcus Aurelius, 161-180, and Commodus, 177-192 (250-325) back
1 Aureus - Imitating Marcus Aurelius, 161-180, and Commodus, 177-192 (250-325) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

1 Aureus - Imitating Marcus Aurelius, 161-180, and Commodus,

 
Gold 5.89 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Uncertain Germanic tribes
Type
Non-circulating coin
Years
250-325
Value
1 Aureus
Currency
Aureus (circa 150-325)
Composition
Gold
Weight
5.89 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#187573
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Winged Victory facing left while holding torch with both hands, all surrounded by legend.

Script: Latin

Lettering: NICIA III[...]CTORI

Edge

Plain

Comment

This was said to be struck by an uncertain mint in the region between the Danube and the Dnieper Rivers.

The exact lettering of the surrounding legend may vary.

The vast majority of Aureus and Quinarius pieces from the Uncertain Germanic tribes are either holed or have a suspension loop attached. This implies that, while these were coins, these imitations were mainly meant for jewelry rather than to be spent.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it is a non-circulating coin, meaning it was not meant to be used as a form of currency, but rather as a collector's item or a symbol of power. Despite its small weight of 5.89 grams, it is made of gold, which gives it a high value and makes it a rare and valuable artifact. Additionally, the fact that it is an imitation of coins minted by Marcus Aurelius and Commodus, two Roman emperors, suggests that the Germanic tribes who created it were influenced by Roman culture and sought to emulate their powerful neighbors.