Roman Antoninianus Coin Value Guide

The Antoninianus is a cornerstone of Roman numismatics, introduced by Caracalla as a double denarius to combat economic strain. It is highly collectible for documenting the 'Crisis of the Third Century' through its rapid transition from silver to silver-washed bronze.

What Is Roman Antoninianus Coin Worth?

The typical price range for Roman Antoninianus Coin is $75 - $120 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The specific emperor depicted, as short-lived 'usurper' emperors command significantly higher premiums.
• The preservation of the silver wash, which is often lost to wear or harsh cleaning.
• The clarity of the reverse legend and iconography, which often depicts Roman deities or military victories.
• Overall strike quality and centering, as many were produced hastily during periods of high inflation.

How to Identify Roman Antoninianus Coin?

• Look for the 'radiate crown' on the emperor's head, which distinguishes this denomination from the standard denarius.
• Check for a crescent moon beneath the bust on coins featuring empresses, indicating a double denomination value.
• Examine the metal composition for traces of silver wash over a bronze or copper core, typical of later 3rd-century issues.
• Verify the weight, which should be approximately 1.5 times that of a standard denarius despite its official double-value status.

History of Roman Antoninianus Coin

The Antoninianus was a Roman coin introduced by the emperor Caracalla in 215 AD. It was a double denarius, though it rarely contained more than 50% of the silver of a single denarius. Its weight and silver content steadily declined throughout the 3rd century, contributing to the widespread inflation and economic instability of the period known as the Crisis of the Third Century. Despite its debasement, it remained a primary denomination until it was eventually replaced by reforms under Diocletian.