Antoninianus - Tacitus SPES AVG; Spes
| Silver | - | - |
| 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 |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#291801 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Spes, draped, walking left, holding flower in right hand and raising robe with left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
SPES AVG
-/-//T
Translation:
Spes Augusti.
Hope of the emperor (Augustus).
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin was introduced by the Roman Emperor Tacitus in 275-276 AD, during a time of economic crisis and inflation. The coin was made of silver, but its value was intentionally set lower than its actual metal value, in order to increase the circulation of currency and stimulate trade. This coin was also known as the "Spes" or "Hope" coin, as it was seen as a symbol of hope for the Roman Empire's economic recovery.