Roman Antoninianus (Radiate)

Roman Empire · c. 250 - 280 AD

An ancient Roman base-silver antoninianus featuring a radiate-crowned emperor on the obverse and a standing deity or personification on the reverse.

Country: Roman Empire
Year: c. 250 - 280 AD
Denomination: Antoninianus (Double Denarius)
Metal: Billon (Low-grade silver-copper alloy)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified September 19, 2026More roman empire coins →

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Overview

An ancient Roman base-silver antoninianus featuring a radiate-crowned emperor on the obverse and a standing deity or personification on the reverse.

Historical significance

Issued during the Crisis of the Third Century, a period of severe economic turmoil, inflation, and political instability in the Roman Empire, reflected by the declining silver content in coins.

Obverse (front)

Radiate-crowned bust of the emperor facing right, surrounded by a partial Latin legend

Reverse (back)

Standing figure (likely a Roman deity or personification such as Mars, Pax, or Virtus) holding a spear or standard, surrounded by legends

Estimated value

$20 - $70 depending on exact ruler, mint, and condition

What drives this coin's value

Ruler identification, completeness of legends, centering, sharpness of strike, and preservation of original surface patina

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine (moderate wear with readable legends and clear central devices)

Mintage & rarity

Common to scarce depending on the specific emperor and reverse type; millions were originally minted but survival varies

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Watch for modern cast counterfeits which exhibit soft details, porous surfaces, or seam lines along the edge. Genuine coins show natural wear and ancient striking characteristics.

Notable varieties & errors

Various officina marks, mint errors, and scarce reverse types or legend errors specific to individual emperors

Similar coins

Roman Denarius (smaller, earlier silver coin) or Late Roman Bronze nummi (Follis)

Care & preservation

Store in a stable, low-humidity environment in inert holders (such as PVC-free flips or capsules). Avoid harsh cleaning, rubbing, or chemical dips to preserve the natural ancient patina.