Antoninianus - Aurelianus (CONSERVAT AVG; Sol) (270-275) front Antoninianus - Aurelianus (CONSERVAT AVG; Sol) (270-275) back
Antoninianus - Aurelianus (CONSERVAT AVG; Sol) (270-275) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Aurelianus CONSERVAT AVG; Sol

 
Silver 4.1 g 21.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Aurelian (Lucius Domitius Aurelianus) (270-275)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
270-275
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
4.1 g
Diameter
21.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#291212
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Sol, radiate, walking right, holding sword (?) in right hand and globe in left hand; trampling on recumbant captive.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
CONSERVAT AVG
A/-//XXI

Translation:
Conservatori Augusti.
Protector of the emperor.

Comment

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Antoninianus coin was issued during the reign of Emperor Aurelianus (270-275 AD), who was known for his military campaigns and his efforts to reform the Roman Empire's currency. The coin's design features the image of the sun god Sol on the reverse, which was a common motif during Aurelianus' reign. The use of the sun symbolized the emperor's role as the bringer of light and prosperity to the empire. Additionally, the coin's silver content was a significant departure from the previous bronze coins, signifying a return to the use of precious metals in Roman currency. This change in currency composition was a result of Aurelianus' monetary reforms, which aimed to stabilize the empire's economy and restore the value of its currency.