Aureus

Definition

The aureus was a gold coin used in Ancient Rome, introduced in the late Republic and widely used during the Empire. It typically weighed about 8 grams and was valued at 25 silver denarii, making it a significant currency for trade and commerce in Rome. The aureus represented wealth and was often used for large transactions or as a reserve of value.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The aureus was first minted around 211 BC during the Roman Republic and became more common during the reign of Augustus.
2. The coin typically featured the image of the emperor on one side and various deities or symbols on the reverse side, reinforcing the political power and religious significance of the ruler.
3. The aureus was often hoarded due to its high value, making it a reliable form of savings compared to silver coins.
4. During times of inflation or economic crisis, emperors sometimes reduced the weight of the aureus or debased it, leading to fluctuating values over time.
5. The use of the aureus gradually declined in favor of smaller denominations and by the 3rd century AD, it became less common as economic conditions changed.

Review Questions

• How did the introduction of the aureus impact trade and commerce in Ancient Rome?
  • The introduction of the aureus significantly facilitated trade and commerce in Ancient Rome by providing a stable and valuable medium for large transactions. Its high value made it ideal for dealing with substantial amounts of wealth, thereby enhancing trade relations with other regions. The aureus also served as a benchmark for assessing value against other currencies, such as the denarius, promoting consistency and trust in economic exchanges.
• Discuss how the imagery on the aureus reflects Roman political ideology during its time.
  • The imagery on the aureus often depicted emperors alongside deities or symbols that embodied Roman values and authority. This choice of imagery was not merely decorative; it served to legitimize the emperor's rule by linking their authority to divine sanction. The coins functioned as propaganda tools, reinforcing loyalty among citizens and soldiers alike while projecting power throughout the vast Roman Empire.
• Evaluate the economic implications of the debasement of the aureus in relation to Roman society's overall stability.
  • The debasement of the aureus had significant economic implications for Roman society, leading to a loss of confidence in currency as its intrinsic value decreased. This loss in value contributed to inflation and financial instability, exacerbating economic challenges faced by citizens. As people began to hoard gold and avoid spending depreciated coins, this behavior led to reduced economic activity and further destabilization within Roman markets. Ultimately, these financial strains reflected broader societal issues that would contribute to the decline of Roman authority.

Related terms

Denarius: A silver coin that was the standard currency of Rome, widely used from the late Republic and throughout the Empire.

Sestertius: A brass or bronze coin that was also used in Ancient Rome, valued at a quarter of a denarius, serving as a common currency for everyday transactions.

Numismatics: The study or collection of currency, including coins, paper money, and tokens, providing insights into economic history and practices.