© CGB
© CGB
Antoninianus - Marius VIRTVS AVG
269 year| Billon | 2.81 g | 20 mm |
| Issuer | Gallic Empire (Roman splinter states) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Marius (269) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 269 |
| Value | Antoninianus (1) |
| Currency | Antoninianus (260-274) |
| Composition | Billon |
| Weight | 2.81 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#316469 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Soldier standing left, holding shield in right hand and spear in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVS AVG
Unabridged legend: Virtus augusti
Translation: The courage of the august
Comment
Strike at an uncertain mint, possibly Cologne or Moguntiacum.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Antoninianus coin featuring Marius (VIRTVS AVG) from the Gallic Empire is that it was made of Billon, a type of alloy composed of copper and silver. This was a common practice during the Roman Empire, as it allowed for the creation of coins that appeared to be made of solid silver but were actually less expensive to produce. The use of Billon in coinage during this time period is a testament to the resourcefulness and efficiency of the Roman Empire's minting practices.
