Antoninianus - Aurelianus GENIVS ILLVR; Genius
| Silver | - | - |
| 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 |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#291011 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Genius, standing left, holding patera in right hand and cornucopiae in left hand; to right, ensign.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
GENIVS ILLVR
S/-//-
Translation:
Genius Illyriciani.
To the genius of [the army in] Illyria.
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin, which was issued during the reign of Emperor Aurelianus (270-275 AD), was a significant departure from previous Roman coins in that it was made of silver, whereas most Roman coins of the time were made of bronze or copper. This change in material was likely due to the economic reforms implemented by Aurelianus, who aimed to stabilize the Roman economy and restore the value of the Roman currency. The use of silver in the Antoninianus coin was a deliberate choice, as silver was seen as a more valuable and prestigious metal than bronze or copper, and it was intended to convey the power and wealth of the Roman Empire.