Antoninianus - Aurelianus (VIRT MILITVM) (270-275) front Antoninianus - Aurelianus (VIRT MILITVM) (270-275) back
Antoninianus - Aurelianus (VIRT MILITVM) (270-275) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Aurelianus VIRT MILITVM

 
Silver 3.7 g 22 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
3.7 g
Diameter
22 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#291237
Rarity index
91%

Reverse

Aurelian, standing right, holding globe in right hand and sceptre in left hand, facing soldier, holding Victory and spear.

Scripts: Latin, Greek

Lettering:
VIRT MILITVM
-/-//Γ

Translation:
Virtus Militum.
The courage of the soldiers.

Comment

Mass varies: 3.209–4.49 g;
Diameter varies: 21.75–22.76 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

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 new era in Roman coinage and paved the way for future emperors to be depicted with this iconic crown.