© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Antoninianus - Maximianus VIRTVS AVGG; Hercules
| Silver | 3.1 g | 20.5 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 | 295-291 |
| Value | Antoninianus (1) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.1 g |
| Diameter | 20.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#306582 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hercules, standing right under apple-tree in the garden of Hesperides, holding club in right hand and apple in left hand; around apple tree, serpent entwined.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
VIRTVS AVGG
-/-//XXIT
Unabridged legend: Virtus Augustorum
Translation: Courage of the emperors (Augusti)
Comment
Example of this type:American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus - Maximianus coin featuring Hercules was part of a series of coins issued during the reign of Emperor Maximian (286-305 AD) that depicted various gods and goddesses from the Roman pantheon. The use of Hercules on this coin is significant because it highlights the cultural exchange between the Roman Empire and the Greeks, as Hercules was a prominent figure in Greek mythology. Additionally, the coin's design featuring Hercules holding a club and wearing a lion's skin, which was a common attribute associated with him, showcases the artistic influence of Greek art on Roman coinage during this period.
