Roman Republic Victoriatus

The Victoriatus: Rome's First Trade Coin

The victoriatus was introduced around 211 BC, the same year as the denarius, but served a different purpose. While the denarius was Rome's internal currency, the victoriatus was designed for trade with southern Italy and the Greek world, struck to the weight standard used in those regions.

This Coin

The obverse shows the laureate head of Jupiter, king of the Roman gods. The reverse depicts Victoria (Victory) crowning a trophy of captured arms — the design that gave the coin its name. This elegant and simple design remained unchanged throughout the coin's production, making it one of the most consistent designs in Roman coinage.