Roman coins have long fascinated historians and collectors alike, offering glimpses into ancient Rome’s economic, cultural, and political landscapes.
Recent archaeological discoveries have shed new light on these artifacts, revealing astonishing facts that challenge previous understandings.
1. Roman Coins Unearthed in Claterna
In November 2023, archaeologists excavating the ancient Roman city of Claterna, near Bologna, Italy, uncovered a remarkable hoard of over 3,000 Roman coins and 50 engraved gems.
This discovery has led experts to dub Claterna the “Pompeii of the North,” highlighting its significance as a major trading hub with direct connections to Rome.
Key Highlights:
- Quantity and Composition: The hoard comprises predominantly silver and bronze coins, including a rare silver quinarius from 97 BCE, found within a newly discovered theater complex.
- Cultural Insights: The engraved gems depict Roman deities, providing insights into the time’s religious practices and artistic expressions.
This find challenges previous assumptions that Claterna was a transit town, revealing its role as a significant trading center in the Roman Empire.
2. Massive Hoard of Roman Coins Discovered Off Sardinia’s Coast
In November 2023, an underwater archaeological expedition near Sardinia’s northeast shore uncovered an estimated 30,000 to 50,000 Roman bronze coins, known as folles. This discovery is considered one of recent most significant numismatic finds.
Key Highlights:
- Quantity: The sheer number of coins surpasses previous finds, such as the 2013 Seaton Down hoard in the UK, which contained 22,888 folles.
- Preservation: The coins are exceptionally well-preserved, with legible inscriptions, offering a wealth of information for researchers.
This monumental find provides invaluable insights into the economic history of the Roman Empire and the extent of its maritime trade networks.
3. The Worcestershire Conquest Hoard
In December 2024, builders near Worcester, England, stumbled upon one of the largest hoards of Roman coins ever found in Britain, valued at over £100,000. The Worcestershire Conquest Hoard comprises 1,368 Iron Age and Roman coins, dating from 157 BCE to 68 CE.
Key Highlights:
- Composition: The hoard includes predominantly silver denarii and a rare gold Iron Age stater from the Dobunni tribe.
- Historical Context: Believed to have belonged to a wealthy farmer supplying the Roman army, this find offers a glimpse into the economic interactions between Roman occupiers and local Britons.
This discovery underscores the wealth present in Roman Britain and provides tangible evidence of the interactions between Roman forces and local economies.
| Discovery Site | Date | Number of Coins | Notable Finds | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claterna, Italy | Nov 2023 | 3,000+ | Rare silver quinarius from 97 BCE; engraved gems depicting Roman deities | Reveals Claterna as a major trading hub, challenging previous assumptions |
| Sardinia’s Coast | Nov 2023 | 30,000–50,000 | Exceptionally well-preserved bronze folles with legible inscriptions | Highlights extensive maritime trade networks of the Roman Empire |
| Worcester, England | Dec 2024 | 1,368 | Silver denarii; rare gold Iron Age stater from the Dobunni tribe | Provides insights into the wealth and economic interactions in Roman Britain |
FAQs
What materials were Roman coins made from?
Roman coins were primarily minted from gold (aureus), silver (denarius), bronze (as), and later, copper-alloy (follis).
What is a quinarius?
A quinarius is a rare silver coin valued at half a denarius, introduced during the Roman Republic.
Why are Roman coin hoards significant?
Coin hoards provide insights into the economic practices, trade networks, and historical events of the Roman era.
What is a follis?
A follis was a large bronze coin introduced during the late Roman Empire, often featuring a thin silver coating.
How do archaeologists date Roman coin finds?
Coins are dated based on inscriptions, emperor portraits, and mint marks, correlating them with historical records.
