© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Semis Anonymous 280 BC - 276 BC
| Bronze | 143.5 g | 55 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Republic (509 BC - 27 BC) |
|---|---|
| Period | Republic (509 BC - 27 BC) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 280 BC - 276 BC |
| Value | Semis (½) |
| Currency | As (circa 280-221 BC) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 143.5 g |
| Diameter | 55 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Cast |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#435303 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Female head, left.
Script: Latin
Lettering: S
Interesting fact
The Semis coin was used during a time of significant economic and political change in ancient Rome. The Roman Republic was transitioning from a primarily agricultural society to a more industrialized and commercial one, and the introduction of new coinage like the Semis helped to facilitate this change. The Semis was equivalent to half of a Roman pound, and its introduction made it easier for merchants and traders to conduct transactions and keep track of debts. Additionally, the Semis coin features an image of a mythical creature called a "bucranium," which is a bull's head with a human body. This image was meant to symbolize strength and fertility, and it was a common motif in ancient Roman art and architecture. Overall, the Semis coin is an interesting example of how currency can reflect the cultural and economic values of a society, and how it can be used to facilitate change and growth.
