duodenarius

The duodenarius was a type of Roman silver coin. Its name derives from the Latin word for twelve, "duodecim," referring to its intended value of twelve asses. This denomination became common during the Roman Republic and continued through the early Imperial period. The duodenarius was one of the principal silver coins alongside the denarius, which was worth ten asses. The introduction and widespread use of the duodenarius aimed to standardize coinage and facilitate trade. Its face often featured the head of a deity or a Roman magistrate, while the reverse typically depicted various symbols, animals, or scenes from Roman mythology or history. The coinage system, including the duodenarius, played a crucial role in the economic and political structure of the Roman world, enabling the payment of soldiers, taxes, and the exchange of goods across the vast empire. Over time, the relative values and the physical characteristics of Roman coins, including the duodenarius, evolved due to debasement and changes in minting practices.