Identifying Roman coins can be a fascinating endeavor, combining elements of historical research, numismatic knowledge, and keen observation. Several resources are available to help you on this journey, from online tools to books and specialized societies.
- OCRE (Online Coins of the Roman Empire): This joint project of the American Numismatic Society and NYU’s Institute for the Study of the Ancient World offers a comprehensive digital database of Roman Imperial coinage. You can search by legends, keywords, and browse image galleries to identify coins. OCRE also features a useful coin identification tool where you can input visible elements on your coin to narrow down the possibilities.
- Tesoro: This website provides an online identification guide specifically for late Roman bronzes, aimed at beginners. It allows users to compare their coins to a large collection of illustrations to determine the issue date, emperor, mint, and design.
- Coin Identification Tools and Forums: Websites like coin-identifier.com provide tools and guides for identification. Additionally, online forums such as Numis Forums and the FORVM Ancient Coins board are excellent places to seek help from experienced collectors and experts.
- Obverse: The “heads” side of the coin typically features a portrait of the Emperor or a deity and abbreviated inscriptions detailing their name and titles. Identifying the ruler is crucial for dating the coin.
- Reverse: The “tails” side often depicts allegorical symbols, figures like eagles or gods, or scenes representing historical events or military victories. These elements help tell the coin’s story and date it.
- Legends and Inscriptions: The inscriptions on both sides, often in Latin abbreviations, provide further clues to the emperor and the era of the coin.
- Material: Roman coins were struck in gold, silver, bronze, and copper. The type of metal can provide hints about its intended use and value during Roman times.
- Patina: This refers to the color change or film that develops on the coin’s surface over time, for example, greenish on bronze or copper and darkened on silver. Patina can offer insights into the coin’s age and history.
- Mint Marks: Roman mint marks can be complex, often consisting of letters or symbols that indicate the mint city and the officina, or workshop, where the coin was produced.
- Roman Coins and Their Values by David R. Sear: A highly regarded reference book that covers the coinage of Republican and Imperial Rome.
- Identifying Roman Coins: A Practical Guide to the Identification of Site Finds in Britain by Richard Reece and Simon James: This book focuses on identifying Roman coins found in Britain.
- Handbook of Ancient Greek and Roman Coins by Zander H. Klawans: This book combines information on both Greek and Roman coinage and can be helpful for identifying a broader range of ancient coins.
- The Roman Imperial Coinage series by Harold Mattingly et al.: This multi-volume series is considered the definitive resource for Roman Imperial coins.
- Observe and record details: Carefully examine both sides of the coin, noting all visible inscriptions, symbols, and images.
- Compare with known examples: Use the online databases and books mentioned above to compare your coin’s features with those of known Roman coins.
- Be cautious about fakes: Be aware that fake Roman coins exist. Look for signs like soft details, pitting, or seams on the edges. If in doubt, seek professional authentication.
By utilizing these resources and techniques, you can embark on the rewarding journey of identifying and understanding your Roman coins.
How do I date my Roman coin?
I can help with that. Recognizing the mint and the officina can help you date your coin. The mint in the Roman town of Siscia was established during the reign of emperor Gallienus (253 – 268), so if you’ve got a coin with a mark of Siscia (usually SIS or SISC), you’ll know the coin can’t be older than the middle of the 3rd century.
What is the best book for identifying Roman coins?
The Encyclopedia of Roman Imperial Coinage is really good as an identification guide and pretty easy to use. I find myself turning to it more and more. The Roman Imperial Coinage series is pretty hard to use and honestly beyond the scope of most collectors. A full set will run over $1000.