Antoninianus - Maximianus HERCVLI CONSERVAT; Hercules
| Silver | 3.7 g | 21.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Maximian Herculius (Marcus Aurelius Valerius Maximianus) (286-305) Diocletian (Gaius Aurelius Valerius Diocletianus) (284-305) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 285-288 |
| Value | Antoninianus (1) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.7 g |
| Diameter | 21.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#306546 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hercules, standing right, leaning on club with lion's skin on rock.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
HERCVLI CONSERVAT
-/-//SXXIT
Translation:
Herculi Conservatori.
To Hercules, the protector.
Comment
Mass varies: 3.52–4 g;Diameter varies: 21–22 mm;
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus - Maximianus coin featuring Hercules (HERCVLI CONSERVAT) was minted during a time of economic crisis in the Roman Empire, specifically during the reign of Emperor Maximian (285-288 AD). The coin's silver content was actually reduced during this period, which is evident in its weight of 3.7 grams, compared to the standard 4 grams of earlier Antoninianus coins. This decrease in silver content was likely a result of the empire's financial struggles and its attempt to increase the money supply. Despite this, the coin still maintained its value and popularity, and it remains a sought-after collector's item today.
