Roman Antoninianus
Italy
238–285
Reference data compiled from public catalogs
Market Price Range
Based on 20 eBay listings · Prices vary by grade and condition
Specifications
| Country | Italy |
| Years Minted | 238–285 |
| Composition | Billon |
| Shape | Round |
| Edge | Plain |
Design
Obverse
Features the radiate bust of the Roman emperor facing right.
Reverse
Typically depicts a standing figure, such as a deity or personification, with various inscriptions.
History & Notable Facts
The Antoninianus, introduced in 238 AD, was meant to be twice the value of a denarius but ended up as little more than a copper wash with a silver pretense. That rapid debasement turned it into a symbol of imperial inflation.
Struck in various Italian mints like Rome and Milan, these coins featured emperors with a radiate crown, a design nod to the sun god but mostly just a way to fool people into thinking they were worth more. Variations include Gordian III's issues with military themes or Aurelian's with victory motifs, though exact production figures vanished with ancient records.
We don't know the precise alloy ratios for every year, as analyses vary. One dry note: if you thought Roman emperors were all about the bling, wait until you see how they skimped on this coin's metal.
Buy on eBay
AI Analysis & Price Prediction
The Roman Antoninianus has shown consistent appreciation over the past decade. Based on historical auction data, population reports, and current market sentiment, our AI model projects...
Get AI-powered analysis for this coin
Unlock with Pro — $9.99/mo
