Antoninianus - Aurelianus (MARS INVICTVS; Mars) (270-275) front Antoninianus - Aurelianus (MARS INVICTVS; Mars) (270-275) back
Antoninianus - Aurelianus (MARS INVICTVS; Mars) (270-275) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Aurelianus MARS INVICTVS; Mars

 
Silver 3.8 g 21 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
3.8 g
Diameter
21 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#291186
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Mars, standing right, holding spear and receiving globe from Sol, standing left, holding whip.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
MARS INVICTVS
A//XXI

Translation:
Mars Invictus.
Undefeated Mars.

Comment

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Antoninianus coin featuring Mars, the Roman god of war, was issued during the reign of Emperor Aurelianus (270-275 AD) as part of a series of coins honoring various deities. The coin's design was meant to emphasize the power and strength of the Roman Empire, and the image of Mars was chosen to symbolize the empire's military prowess. The use of silver in the coin's minting was also a deliberate choice, as it was a valuable and prestigious metal that was associated with wealth and power. Overall, the coin is a fascinating example of how the Roman Empire used currency as a means of promoting its values and ideals.