Vilates

Vilates are a type of ancient Roman coin, specifically a type of silver coin that was issued during the Roman Republic and early Roman Empire. The term "vilates" is derived from the Latin word "vilis," which means "cheap" or "worthless," reflecting the low value of these coins. Vilates were typically struck in large quantities and were often used for everyday transactions, as they were less valuable than other Roman coins such as the aureus or denarius.

The design of vilates varied, but they commonly featured the bust of a Roman deity or emperor on the obverse, and a representation of a city or province on the reverse. The weight of vilates was standardized, usually around 1.5 grams, which made them convenient for use in commerce. Despite their low value, vilates played an important role in the Roman economy, as they helped to facilitate the exchange of goods and services.

The production of vilates began in the late 2nd century BC and continued until the 4th century AD. They were minted in various cities throughout the Roman Empire, including Rome, Alexandria, and Antioch. The circulation of vilates declined over time as the Roman economy shifted towards the use of more valuable coins, such as the solidus. However, they remained in use for some time, and their legacy can still be seen in the design and value of modern currency.

In summary, vilates are a type of ancient Roman silver coin that were issued during the Roman Republic and early Roman Empire. They were characterized by their low value, standardized weight, and widespread use in everyday transactions. Despite their decline in the later Roman Empire, vilates played an important role in the economy and continue to be studied by historians and numismatists today.