Denarius - Pescennius Niger (FIDEI EXERCITVI) (193-194) front Denarius - Pescennius Niger (FIDEI EXERCITVI) (193-194) back
Denarius - Pescennius Niger (FIDEI EXERCITVI) (193-194) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Pescennius Niger FIDEI EXERCITVI

 
Silver 2.8 g 19 mm
Description
Issuer
Usurpations of Syria (Roman Imperial usurpations)
Ruling authority
Pescennius Niger (193-194)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
193-194
Value
Denarius (1)
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.8 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#271240
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Three standards with vexilla; on central one, shield inscribed VIC AVG.

Script: Latin

Lettering: FIDEI EXERCITVI

Translation:
Fides Exercitui.
Loyalty of the army.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.73–2.82 g;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during the reign of Pescennius Niger, who was a usurper of the Roman Empire in the 2nd century AD. The coin features the image of Niger on one side and the inscription "FIDEI EXERCITVI" (meaning "Faith of the Army") on the other, highlighting the support of the military for Niger's claim to the throne. Despite being a usurper, Niger was able to maintain control over the empire for a brief period before being defeated by the legitimate emperor, Septimius Severus. This coin is a rare and valuable artifact from a pivotal moment in Roman history.