© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG
© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG
Spintria VIIII
| Bronze | 5.6 g | 22.5 mm |
| Location | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Type | › Tokens |
| Years | 22-37 |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 5.6 g |
| Diameter | 22.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-11-14 |
| Numista | N#337718 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Numeral within dotted circle, surrounded by wreath.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIIII
Comment
Spintriae are small bronze tokens produced simultaneously within one single officina for a short period of time between 22 and 37 AD. It is not precisely known what the purpose of these tokens was. Various theories exist and are highly debated:- one being these tokens were part of an experiment to control revenues within a token-coin-token circuit (perhaps within the brothel sector);
- another one suggests these were locker tokens for baths and the number would serve to identify the locker.
Even though it has been suggested that the spintriae were used as brothel tokens, this theory does not stand and has never been supported by evidence.
Some spintriae are known with an inscription instead of a numeral (e.g., AVG).
