Late Roman AE Nummis (likely Valentinian I or Valens)
Country of Origin: Roman Empire
Year of Issue: 364-378 AD
Denomination: AE3 (Fractional Nummis)
Composition: Bronze (formerly with a trace silver wash)
Brief Description
A small, heavily oxidized Roman bronze coin with a green patina, featuring the head of an emperor on the obverse.
Historical Significance
Coins from this period represent the later stability of the Roman Empire under the Valentinian dynasty. They were mass-produced to pay soldiers and facilitate trade during a time of increased border pressure and administrative division between East and West.
Estimated Value
$5-$15 (due to heavy oxidation and typical scarcity/condition)
Care Instructions
Do not attempt to clean this coin with chemicals or abrasive tools as the green patina is fragile. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or a dry, acid-free envelope.
Mint Mark
Unclear due to wear and oxidation, but likely Siscia, Thessalonica, or Arles.
Mintage & Rarity
Common; millions were minted across the empire.
Weight & Diameter
Circa 2.0-3.0 grams; 17-19 mm
Edge
Plain / irregular
Apparent Grade
Good (G) to Very Good (VG) - heavily corroded with thick green oxidation obscuring details.
Obverse (Front)
Diademed, draped, and armored bust of the Emperor facing right. Inscription usually reads DN VALENTINI-ANVS PF AVG (or VALENS).
Reverse (Back)
Difficult to distinguish, but typically 'GLORIA ROMANORVM' (Emperor dragging captive) or 'SECVRITAS REIPVBLICAE' (Victory advancing left).
What Drives This Coin's Value
Legibility of the legend, state of the patina, and the clarity of the mint mark in the exergue.
Similar Coins
Often confused with other 4th-century AE coins of the Constantinian or Theodosian dynasties. Differentiation is made by measuring the bust style and reading the partial legend.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for casting seams or bubbles; however, the thick, authentic 'desert' or 'green' patina on this example is characteristic of genuine buried bronze.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Varies by mint mark and officina (workshop) letters in the fields.
Created At: 2026-06-04T19:13:26.807676