Antoninianus - Maximianus (SALVS AVGG; Salus) (291-293) front Antoninianus - Maximianus (SALVS AVGG; Salus) (291-293) back
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Antoninianus - Maximianus SALVS AVGG; Salus

 
Silver 3.4 g 23 mm
Description
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
291-293
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.4 g
Diameter
23 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#306355
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Salus, draped, standing right, feeding snake held in arms.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
SALVS AVGG
-/-//C

Translation:
Salus Duorum Augustorum.
Health of the two emperors (Augusti).

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Antoninianus - Maximianus coin was issued during a time of great economic and political turmoil in the Roman Empire. The coin's design, featuring the goddess Salus (Salvation) on the reverse, was meant to promote the idea of salvation and protection during a period of crisis. Despite its small size, the coin was made of silver, indicating the value placed on precious metals during this time. Additionally, the coin's minting process was likely done using a technique called "fourree," where a base metal core was covered with a thin layer of silver to make it appear more valuable. This fact highlights the creativity and resourcefulness of the Roman Empire's minting practices during a time of economic challenge.