Roman Coin | Silver Denarius

History of the Artifact

The denarius was a small silver coin and one of the most important denominations in ancient Rome currency. Initially valued at ten asses (hence its name, derived from deni, meaning "ten"), it became the backbone of Roman commerce for centuries. The coin is considered by scholars to have been Rome’s main coin, until it was replaced by the Antoninianus in the early 3rd century AD, a coin of reduced silver content.  

While the value of the denarius changed with economic ups and downs of Rome’s history, scholars estimate that one denarius coin was sufficient to buy enough wheat for one legionnaire to bake a month’s worth of bread. 

The Denarius coin maintained strong silver purity from the coin’s beginning in 211 BC, up to 193, when the coin's purity was debased as a result of political instability in Rome. In these years of debasement, the denarius had its silver content greatly reduced, until it had a mere 5% silver purity. 

What you will get in your order is a silver denarius from before this period of decline, meaning your coin will be of at least 80% silver content. The date of your coin can range greatly, but most fall between 69 and 200 AD.

How do I know these are original Roman Coins?

Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection: 

1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

What will my artifact look like?

Your coin will look very similar to the one shown in the photos. There will always be some variety, given our items are unique historical pieces. The display case included is openable so that you may easily handle and closely observe the artifact. If for whatever reason you get anything that does not fit this description you are entitled to your money back! 

  Your order will include:

• One authentic Roman Silver Denarius dated between the 31 BC and 230 AD
• Elegant protective case for preservation and display of your artifact 
• Certificate of Authenticity

Ancient Artifacts relics are guaranteed authentic and have a 100% money back policy. Read more about our Mission and Promise for authenticity.