Rome, Silver Denarius, Emperor Commodus

Includes glass top display box.

• Size: 3.34g, 18mm
• Denomination: Denarius
• Authority: Emperor Commodus
• Mint Location: Rome
• Type Number: RIC III Commodus 234
• Obverse Design: L AEL AVREL COMM AVG P FEL / Head of Commodus, laureate, right
• Reverse Design: P M TR P XVII IMP VIII COS VII P P / Fides Militum, standing left, holding standard in right hand and cornucopiae in left hand; in field, star

The Roman denarius was an ancient silver coin that played a central role in the Roman economy from the late Republican era through the Imperial era. Originally, it was a high-quality silver coin, consisting of roughly 95% pure silver. However, as the Roman Republic transitioned into the Roman Empire, the silver content of the denarius gradually decreased in a process known as debasement. This allowed the government to produce more coins with the same amount of silver, which was primarily driven by the financial pressures of funding wars, infrastructure projects, and maintaining the empire's vast territories.

As the silver content of the denarius decreased, it lost its intrinsic value, leading to inflation. Inflation is a general increase in the prices of goods and services, which reduces the purchasing power of money. As the denarius became less valuable, the cost of everyday items increased, and people needed more coins to buy the same goods. This inflation had a significant impact on the Roman economy and contributed to the empire's eventual decline.

In an attempt to stabilize the economy, Emperor Diocletian introduced a new silver coin called the argenteus in 294 CE, which was meant to replace the debased denarius. Unfortunately, this new coin also experienced rapid debasement and failed to stabilize the economy, highlighting the difficulties in managing a currency system throughout history.

All purchases include a Certificate of Authenticity. You will receive the exact item in this photo, along with a glass top leatherette display box.