Antoninianus - Caracalla P M TR P XX COS IIII P P; Sol
217 year| Silver | 5 g | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Caracalla (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Caracalla) (198-217) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 217 |
| Value | Antoninianus (1) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 5 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#273501 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Sol, radiate, naked except for cloak over left shoulder, standing front, head left, raising right hand and holding whip in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: P M TR P XX COS IIII P P
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Vicesima, Consul Quartum, Pater Patriae.
High priest, holder of tribunician power for the 20th time, consul for the fourth time, father of the nation.
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Antoninianus coin is that it was introduced by the Roman Emperor Caracalla in 217 AD as a replacement for the denarius, which had been the standard Roman currency for centuries. The Antoninianus was made of silver and had a higher purity level than the denarius, which had been debased over time. The coin was also introduced as a way to increase the emperor's popularity and to promote his image as a powerful and generous leader. Despite its introduction, the Antoninianus did not last long as the standard currency and was eventually replaced by other coins.
