AE3

AE3

An AE3 coin depicting Constantine the Great

The AE3, also known as the Antoninianus, was a Roman coin that was introduced during the reign of Emperor Caracalla in the late 3rd century AD. It was a significant development in Roman coinage, as it marked the transition from the silver denarius to a new, smaller denomination.

History

The AE3 was first minted in 215 AD, during the reign of Caracalla. It was initially introduced as a replacement for the silver denarius, which had become debased due to the increasing cost of silver. The AE3 was made of bronze with a thin silver wash, giving it a silver appearance. This new coin was smaller and lighter than the denarius, making it more affordable to produce.

The AE3 continued to be minted throughout the 3rd and 4th centuries AD, under various emperors such as Constantine the Great, Diocletian, and Valentinian I. It became the standard coin of the Roman Empire during this period, circulating widely in both the eastern and western provinces.

Characteristics

The AE3 had a diameter of approximately 18-23mm and weighed around 3-4 grams. It featured a variety of designs, including portraits of emperors, mythological figures, and personifications of virtues. The reverse side often depicted various Roman deities, military symbols, or allegorical representations.

The coin was inscribed with the emperor's name and title, as well as the mintmark indicating the location of its production. The legends on the coin provided valuable information about the ruler and the time period in which it was minted.

Significance

The introduction of the AE3 had several important implications for the Roman Empire. Firstly, it allowed for the continuation of coinage despite the scarcity of silver. By using a bronze core with a silver wash, the AE3 maintained the appearance of a silver coin while reducing the cost of production.

Secondly, the smaller size and weight of the AE3 made it more practical for everyday transactions. It facilitated trade and commerce within the empire, as well as the payment of taxes and salaries. The widespread circulation of the AE3 contributed to the economic stability of the Roman Empire during a period of political and social upheaval.

Legacy

The AE3 remained in circulation until the late 4th century AD, when it was gradually replaced by the smaller AE4 coin. However, its influence on Roman coinage was long-lasting. The introduction of the AE3 set a precedent for the use of base metals in coin production, which became more common in the following centuries.

Today, AE3 coins are highly sought after by collectors and numismatists. They provide valuable insights into the history, art, and culture of the Roman Empire during the late antiquity period.

See also

• Roman currency
• Denarius
• Antoninianus
• Constantine the Great

External links

• AE3 coins on ACSearch.info