Denarius of Antoninus Pius

John Garner is the detectorist who unearthed this coin. It’s a Roman denarius of Antoninus Pius, whose dates are AD 138 to 161.

The obverse legend isn’t fully visible but if it could be seen it would read ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COS III around the laureate head of the emperor. On the reverse is the standing figure of Victory, who holds a wreath and a palm and is accompanied by a legend reading IMPERATOR II. In volume II of David Sear’s Roman Coins and Their Values the type is listed as number 4087. It was struck at Rome during AD 143.

The obverse is slightly off centre and there are striking cracks in the edge but this side is otherwise in Fine condition. The detail on the reverse stands out better than it does on the obverse.

Valuation

There is a snag. On the obverse, in front of the emperor’s face and under his chin, it looks as if some metal has flaked off. If this is the case then the coin could have a base metal core covered by a layer of silver and this would have an impact on its value. If the coin is solid silver then in its present condition it could be worth around £25. However, if it is silver-plated then my valuation figure would be no higher than £10.