Uploaded November 2019 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
I bought both of these Roman coins for $20 each. Many Roman coins are quite affordable.
The first coin is a Antonianus issued by emperor Aurelian during the 3rd Century. The 3rd century was a chaotic time in Roman history. Rome was invaded by the Persian Empire in the east and barbarian tribes in the west. Many civil wars were fought by generals to usurp the throne. Roman provinces such as Gaul and Syria seceded from the Empire to form independent nations. The economy experienced hyperinflation from all the wars. The Antonianus was originally a silver coin worth two Denarii. However the 3rd Century Crisis debased the Antonianus until it was merely a bronze coin with silver plating.
The second coin is a Denarius issued by emperor Marcus Aurelius. During Marcus Aurelius’s reign, the Denarius contained 70%-83% silver. Marcus Aurelius was the last of the “Five Good Emperors.” The Five Good Emperors ruled the Roman Empire at the height of its power. Marcus Aurelius was also a Stoic philosopher. He authored a book called “Meditations” which is continued to be read by Stoics today.
I bought both of these Roman coins for $20 each. Many Roman coins are quite affordable.
The first coin is a Antonianus issued by emperor Aurelian during the 3rd Century. The 3rd century was a chaotic time in Roman history. Rome was invaded by the Persian Empire in the east and barbarian tribes in the west. Many civil wars were fought by generals to usurp the throne. Roman provinces such as Gaul and Syria seceded from the Empire to form independent nations. The economy experienced hyperinflation from all the wars. The Antonianus was originally a silver coin worth two Denarii. However the 3rd Century Crisis debased the Antonianus until it was merely a bronze coin with silver plating.
The second coin is a Denarius issued by emperor Marcus Aurelius. During Marcus Aurelius’s reign, the Denarius contained 70%-83% silver. Marcus Aurelius was the last of the “Five Good Emperors.” The Five Good Emperors ruled the Roman Empire at the height of its power. Marcus Aurelius was also a Stoic philosopher. He authored a book called “Meditations” which is continued to be read by Stoics today.
