aurei

The aureus is a gold coin used in ancient Rome and its empire. The name comes from Latin aureus, meaning golden. It was the principal gold denomination for several centuries.

It was introduced during the late Republic, around 46–45 BCE, as part of monetary reform under Julius Caesar and the state; it quickly became a standard for large payments and military salaries, with imagery often featuring the emperor and deities.

In terms of composition, aurei were nearly pure gold, with a standard weight around 7.3 grams, though both weight and fineness varied over time and across emperors. Changes in the empire’s finances during crises could affect the coin’s size and gold content.

Minting and circulation: The aureus was produced at Rome and at major provincial mints. It circulated widely across the empire and in international trade, and was often hoarded as bullion. During periods of shortage it could be debased or issued irregularly.

Decline and replacement: In the 3rd century, financial strain and inflation led to debasement and irregular production. In the early 4th century, Constantine I introduced the solidus, a new gold coin that gradually became the standard, supplanting the aureus in both East and West. By late antiquity aurei were rare in regular circulation.

Legacy: The aureus remains a central subject for numismatists and historians. Surviving specimens help date events, assess economic conditions, and illustrate royal propaganda, while the coin’s distribution and hoards illuminate Roman trade networks across the empire.