© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Antoninianus - Tacitus FIDES MILITVM; Fides
| Silver | 3.8 g | 22.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Tacitus (Marcus Claudius Tacitus) (275-276) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 275-276 |
| Value | Antoninianus (1) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.8 g |
| Diameter | 22.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#291662 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Fides, draped, standing left, holding ensign in each hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
FIDES MILITVM
-/-//-
Translation:
Fides Militum.
Loyalty of the soldiers.
Comment
Mass varies: 3.68–3.9 g;Diameter varies: 21–24.5 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 Tacitus in 275-276 AD as a replacement for the denarius, which had been the standard Roman currency for centuries. The Antoninianus was made of silver and had a higher purity level than the denarius, which had been debased over time. The coin's design featured an image of Tacitus on one side and the goddess Fides (Fidelity) on the other, symbolizing the emperor's commitment to restoring the Roman Empire's economic stability and military strength. Despite its introduction during a time of economic turmoil, the Antoninianus coin remained in circulation for over a century and became a staple of Roman commerce.
