Coinage, Roman Empire

Abstract

During the Roman imperial period, coinage was modified a number of times through the introduction of new denominations and the debasement of the metals. By studying the coins, we can also learn about the organization of the empire and the increasing concentration of power in the hands of one supreme ruler. The imperial portraits, always identified by name on the obverse, have long assisted in identifying sculpted portraits, but the images on the reverse side can be of even greater importance. For there we find the messages and accomplishments that were deemed worthy of circulation throughout the empire.