Antoninianus - Herennius Etruscus as Caesar (PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS; Apollo) (250-251) front Antoninianus - Herennius Etruscus as Caesar (PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS; Apollo) (250-251) back
Antoninianus - Herennius Etruscus as Caesar (PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS; Apollo) (250-251) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Herennius Etruscus as Caesar PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS; Apollo

 
Silver 4 g 22 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Decius (Gaius Messius Quintus Traianus Decius) (249-251)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
250-251
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
4 g
Diameter
22 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#282809
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Apollo, half-draped, seated left, holding branch in right hand and resting elbow on lyre.

Script: Latin

Lettering: PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS

Translation:
Principi Juventutis.
To the prince of the youth.

Comment

Mass varies: 3.23–5.97 g;
Diameter varies: 18–24 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Antoninianus coin featuring Herennius Etruscus as Caesar is notable for its depiction of Apollo on the reverse side. Apollo was a prominent deity in Roman mythology, known for his association with music, poetry, prophecy, and healing. His appearance on the coin may have been intended to symbolize the Roman Empire's connection to the arts and intellectual pursuits. Additionally, the use of Apollo's image may have been seen as a way to promote the idea of the Roman Empire as a civilized and cultured entity, highlighting the importance of art and culture in Roman society.