Aureus

Definition

The aureus was a gold coin used in ancient Rome, first issued around 211 BCE during the Roman Republic and continuing through the Imperial period. It served as a principal medium of exchange and reflected the wealth and economic power of Rome, playing a critical role in the Roman monetary system and its subsequent transformations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The aureus typically weighed about 8 grams and was composed of almost pure gold, making it a valuable medium for trade and accumulation of wealth.
2. During times of economic crisis, such as the Crisis of the Third Century, the aureus was often debased, leading to inflation and a loss of trust in the currency.
3. Emperors frequently used the issuance of aurei to promote their image and legitimize their rule, often depicting themselves on the coins with various titles and attributes.
4. The aureus was eventually replaced by other forms of currency like the solidus during the late Roman Empire as economic conditions changed and new monetary systems developed.
5. The use of the aureus influenced later European coinage systems, as its legacy continued to be felt well into the medieval period.

Review Questions

• How did the aureus function within the Roman monetary system and what was its significance in trade?
  • The aureus was central to the Roman monetary system, acting as a primary medium for significant transactions due to its high value. Its purity and weight made it desirable for trade across vast distances within the Empire. The use of aurei facilitated commerce and economic stability, reflecting Rome's wealth while also allowing emperors to control their economy through its issuance.
• Discuss the impact of economic crises on the production and value of the aureus during different periods of Roman history.
  • Economic crises significantly impacted both the production and value of the aureus. For instance, during the Crisis of the Third Century, many emperors debased the aureus to increase their supply, leading to rampant inflation. This undermined confidence in the coin's value and ultimately necessitated reforms in coinage, demonstrating how external pressures could affect currency stability in Rome.
• Evaluate how the symbolic representation on aurei contributed to imperial propaganda and the perception of authority in ancient Rome.
  • Aurei were not just currency; they were tools for imperial propaganda. The imagery and inscriptions on these coins were carefully designed to convey messages about an emperor's achievements, virtues, and divine favor. This practice allowed rulers to shape public perception, consolidate power, and promote loyalty among citizens and soldiers alike. As such, the aureus played a dual role as both a means of trade and a medium for political messaging in ancient Rome.

Related terms

Denarius: A silver coin that became the standard currency of Rome, widely used before the aureus gained prominence in trade.

Sestertius: A large brass or bronze coin that was commonly used in everyday transactions and often had a face value of one quarter of a denarius.

Coinage Reform: Changes made to the monetary system in ancient Rome, including adjustments to weight, metal composition, and denominations, often reflecting economic conditions and policies.