The double denarius, also known as the antoninianus, became increasingly important during the mid-third century as Roman authorities struggled with a monetary crisis and sought to produce higher-denomination coins with insufficient precious metal content. By the period of 249-251 AD, this denomination had largely supplanted the traditional denarius in circulation, though its silver content had declined significantly from earlier standards. This Roman Empire Double Denarius has an impressive Mint State certification from the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). Right now, the Roman Empire Trajan Decius AR Double Denarius is available from JM Bullion.

Coin Highlights:

• Arrives in a protective plastic slab!
• Struck in the mid-3rd century AD!
• Released during the brief rule of Trajan Decius!
• NGC Ancient Mint State certification!
• 3/5 strike!
• 4/5 surface!
• Contains approximately 3.61 grams of actual silver content.
• Bust of Trajan Decius on the obverse.
• Seated figure on the reverse.
• Please note that the coins in this listing may vary slightly in appearance, condition, and specific design.

This Roman Empire Trajan Decius AR Double Denarius has a stunning Mint State certification from the NGC. The coin features a satin-frost luster on the obverse, with matte visuals on the reverse that highlight the soft definition of the central design. Overall, the coin has a 3/5 strike, indicating modest strength and centering of the design, while the 4/5 surface grade indicates a coin with visible signs of wear and tear.

During the brief reign of Trajan Decius (249-251 AD), the double denarius served as the primary silver denomination for imperial payments and general circulation, produced in substantial quantities to fund military operations against Gothic invasions and internal challenges. Decius’s coinage program maintained production levels necessary for army pay and government expenditure, though the antoninianus of this period contained significantly debased silver content compared to its theoretical value.

The Roman Empire AR Double Denarius of Trajan Decius featured the emperor’s radiate portrait on the obverse, the radiate crown being the distinctive marker differentiating this denomination from the laureate denarius. Reverse designs emphasized military virtues and traditional Roman religious themes, including depictions of Dacia, Pannonia, and various deities intended to project strength and legitimacy during a turbulent period.

If you have any questions about ancient silver, please feel free to ask. JM Bullion customer service is available at 800-276-6508, online using our web chat, and via our email address.