Antoninianus - Hostilian as Caesar (MAR PROP; Mars) (251) front Antoninianus - Hostilian as Caesar (MAR PROP; Mars) (251) back
Antoninianus - Hostilian as Caesar (MAR PROP; Mars) (251) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Hostilian as Caesar MAR PROP; Mars

251 year
Silver 3.6 g 23.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Decius (Gaius Messius Quintus Traianus Decius) (249-251)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
251
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.6 g
Diameter
23.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#282867
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Mars, helmeted, in military attire, advancing right, holding spear in right hand and shield in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: MAR PROP

Translation:
Mars Propugnatori.
Mars, the defender.

Comment

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a rare representation of the Roman god Mars on the reverse, which is unusual for a coin of this era. Mars is depicted standing to the left, holding a spear and a shield, while a small figure of Victory stands on the right, crowning a trophy. This representation of Mars may have been intended to promote the idea of military strength and victory during a time of conflict or political instability.