


© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Antoninianus - Philippus I VIRTVS AVG; Virtus
Silver | 4.2 g | 22.5 mm |
Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
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Emperor | Philip I (Marcus Iulius Philippus) (244-249) |
Type | Standard circulation coin |
Years | 244-247 |
Value | Antoninianus (1) |
Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
Composition | Silver |
Weight | 4.2 g |
Diameter | 22.5 mm |
Shape | Round (irregular) |
Technique | Hammered |
Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
Demonetized | Yes |
Updated | 2024-10-05 |
Numista | N#282129 |
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Rarity index | 93% |
Reverse
Virtus, draped, seated, on cuirass, left, holding branch in right hand and spear in left hand; shield sometimes behind cuirass.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVS AVG
Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.
Comment
Mass varies: 3.66–5.22 g;Diameter varies: 21.4–24 mm;
Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin was introduced by the Roman Emperor Philip I (also known as Philippus I) in 244 AD, and it was the first coin to feature the image of a Roman emperor wearing a beard. This was a significant departure from the traditional clean-shaven image of Roman emperors and marked a shift towards a more militaristic and rugged image. The coin's design was meant to convey the emperor's strength and virtus (virtue), which was an important quality for Roman leaders at the time.