Roman Coin | Silver Denarius

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.

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.

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! 

Owning a Roman silver denarius is relatively common among collectors due to its abundance, durability, and historical significance. 

Millions of denarii were minted across various Roman provinces, ensuring their widespread circulation. Many were preserved in hoards, buried by individuals during times of war or uncertainty, and rediscovered centuries later through archaeological excavations or accidental finds. Their high silver content and cultural value also contributed to their preservation, as they were often kept as keepsakes or incorporated into collections over time.

Today, Roman silver denarii are readily available through numismatic dealers, auctions, and online platforms.