Antoninianus - Tacitus (MARS VICTOR; Mars) (275-276) front Antoninianus - Tacitus (MARS VICTOR; Mars) (275-276) back
Antoninianus - Tacitus (MARS VICTOR; Mars) (275-276) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Tacitus MARS VICTOR; Mars

 
Silver 3.3 g 22.5 mm
Description
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
3.3 g
Diameter
22.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#291664
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Mars, walking right, holding spear in right hand and trophy in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
MARS VICTOR
A/*//-

Translation:
Mars Victor.
Mars, the victorious.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.24–4.16 g;
Diameter varies: 22–23 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 AD, and it was the first coin to feature the Roman god of war, Mars, on one side and the emperor's image on the other. This coin was a significant departure from previous Roman coins, which typically featured the emperor's image alone. The inclusion of Mars on the coin was a nod to Tacitus' military background and his efforts to promote the Roman Empire's military prowess.