These replicas of the coins Aureus of Emperor Claudius, Denarius of Emperor Augustus, Sestertius and Dupondius of Emperor Nero and As of Emperor Antoninus Pius are cast directly from the original coins and made of tin. The gold aureus is gilded with 22k gold and the Sestertius, As and Dupondius coins have a bronze finish.
The brochure-style packaging has holes in the middle of the page where the coins are mounted in clear plastic blisters. On the front is a depiction of a Roman mosaic and inside are other Roman motifs. The set includes information on how the coins were made, how they served as "newspapers" and the various denominations.
The coins were first prepared by the mintmaster, who chose a suitable metal alloy. Gold, silver and copper alloys were most commonly used. Coin blanks were produced by casting molten metal into moulds to form round discs.
The motif of the coin was engraved into the die. One die was designed for the obverse side (obverse) and the other for the reverse side (reverse).
The molten coin blank was inserted between the two punches, which were resting on an anvil, and the upper punch was struck hard with a hammer. Coinage was usually done by hand. Coins were periodically withdrawn from circulation and remelted for new issues.
In the days before television, radio and newspapers, it was not easy to spread information over such a vast territory as the Roman Empire. Coins were an effective means of spreading ideas and propaganda among the population.
The obverse of the coin usually bore the portrait of the reigning emperor, which helped people to recognise his likeness. Some emperors also had members of their family portrayed.
Most of the messages were on the reverse side of the coin. Often the gods of the Roman pantheon were featured if the emperor wanted to associate himself with their qualities (e.g. Minerva as the bringer of peace).
Animals or mythological creatures also appeared quite often on Roman coins. Some animals were associated with specific gods. The denarius of Augustus, for example, depicts Capricorn, referring to his zodiac sign. Other animals symbolized strength or courage.
Buildings, such as temples, also appeared on coins and were especially common on coins of Nero and Antoninus Pius. Military objects were also depicted.
The letters SC, meaning Senatus Consulto (" by the decision of the Senate"), often appeared on the reverse of Roman coins.
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