© Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen (CC BY-NC 4.0 DE)
© Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen (CC BY-NC 4.0 DE)
As - Trajan Decius GENIVS EXERC ILLVRICIANI S C; Genius
| Bronze | 11.2 g | 26 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Decius (Gaius Messius Quintus Traianus Decius) (249-251) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 249-251 |
| Value | As (1⁄32) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 11.2 g |
| Diameter | 26 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#282753 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Genius, wearing polos on head, nude except for short cloak on shoulders, standing left, holding patera in right hand and cornucopiae in left hand; to right, standard.
Script: Latin
Lettering: GENIVS EXERC ILLVRICIANI S C
Translation:
Genius Exercitus Illuriciani. Senatus Consultum.
To the genius (guardian spirit) of the Illyrian army. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 9.55–13.97 g;Diameter varies: 24–28 mm;
Example of this type:
Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman emperor Trajan Decius, who ruled from 249 to 251 AD, on one side, and the personification of the Roman province of Illyricum, represented by a female figure known as the "Genius," on the other side. This coin was minted during a time of great turmoil in the Roman Empire, as Decius faced numerous challenges, including invasions by barbarian tribes and conflicts with the Roman Senate. Despite these challenges, Decius was able to maintain stability in the empire and implement several important reforms, including the creation of a new system of taxation and the establishment of a professional civil service. This coin is a rare and valuable artifact that provides a glimpse into the political and economic conditions of the Roman Empire during this time period.
