Antoninianus - Diocletianus VIRTVTI AVGG; Hercules
| Silver | - | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Diocletian (Gaius Aurelius Valerius Diocletianus) (284-305) Maximian Herculius (Marcus Aurelius Valerius Maximianus) (286-305) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 289-294 |
| 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#305775 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hercules, standing right, strangling lion; behind, club; Victory crowning Hercules.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVTI AVGG
Translation:
Virtuti Duorum Augustorum.
To the courage of the two emperors (Augusti).
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin featuring Diocletianus (VIRTVTI AVGG; Hercules) was part of a significant monetary reform implemented by Diocletian in 293 AD, aimed at addressing the economic challenges faced by the Roman Empire at the time. The reform introduced a new system of coinage that replaced the previous system based on the denarius, and the Antoninianus became the standard circulation coin. This coin was made of silver, which was a more valuable material than the copper or bronze used for previous coins, reflecting the inflationary pressures on the Roman economy. The image of Hercules on the coin was also a symbol of the emperor's power and strength, emphasizing his role as a strong leader who could address the empire's challenges.