Antoninianus - Aurelianus PROVIDENT AVG; Mercury
| 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#291160 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Mercury, standing left, holding purse in right hand and caduceus in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: PROVIDENT AVG
Translation:
Providentia Augusti.
Foresight of the emperor (Augustus).
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. It was the first coin to feature a radiate crown on the emperor's head, which symbolized the power and authority of the Roman Empire. This design change marked a shift in the Roman Empire's ideology, emphasizing the emperor's divine right to rule and his connection to the gods. The coin's design also featured the god Mercury, who was associated with commerce and trade, reflecting the coin's intended use in everyday transactions.