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bhx7

Probably a Newbie Roman coin question

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So after a nice response on my last Roman I have a quick question regarding coinage and their metals.

I picked up a nice little roman coin, entitled unknown and just paid a couple of pounds. It was the head of the young boy that got me as it is a lovely portrait.

I have done a little digging and think I have found the correct coin; online research only though, as I don't have any specific Roman references; but there seems to be a stumbling block. The coin I have is almost definitely bronze, weighs 2.98g and measures 14mm by 16 mm and approx 2mm thick. The one I have found which I think is correct is down as an AR Denarius.

Description taken from Beast Coins website:  https://www.beastcoins.com/RomanImperial/IV-I/Caracalla/Caracalla.htm

Caracalla as Caesar, AR Denarius, 196?, Rome
M AVR ANTONI_NVS CAES
Bare head, draped, cuirassed bust right, seen from behind
SECVRITAS PE_RPETVA
Minerva, helmeted, standing facing, head left, reversed spear in left hand, right resting on shield
16mm x 19mm, 3.06g
RIC IV, Part I, 2 (S)

The sizes can vary obviously but is this just a case of a debased coin, a contemporary forgery, or something else. My coin is below, the other can be found via link

Thanks in advance

 

Caracalla Caesear 196-98 - r - Minerva standing with right arm on shield left holding spear online.jpg

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Many were silver dipped as currency became worth less, so it's probably a good match to be honest :)

 

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The denarius (silver) was replaced by the antoninianus (various degrees of silver wash; valued at 2 denarii) and ultimately with the follis which was 100% bronze. The antoninianus was introduced by Caracalla so that is what it could well be.

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Thanks guys

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