Roman Coins

Early Life and the Division of the Empire

Who was Galla Placidia? Galla Placidia, born around AD 388, was the daughter of Emperor Theodosius I and his second wife, Galla. Her early years were shaped by a rapidly changing Roman Empire. Specifically, after her father's death in AD 395, the empire split into Eastern and Western regions. This division set the stage for the political upheaval and power struggles that would become a constant in her life

Galla Placidia's upbringing within the Roman court afforded her a unique vantage point to observe and understand the inner workings of imperial politics. As power struggles intensified, she quickly learned the intricacies of alliances, betrayals, and strategic marriages. Despite the turbulence surrounding her, Galla Placidia cultivated strong relationships with influential

Emperor Vitellius' lavish lifestyle was known throughout the Roman Empire. He was the Roman Emperor for only 8 short months from 69 AD to his death in 79 AD. In fact, he is known as the shortest-reigning emperor of the Roman Empire.

Emperor Aulus Vitellius was born in AD 15 and came from a wealthy family in northern Italy. After the civil war known as the Year of the Four Emperors, he was crowned emperor. Moreover, his reign was marked by conflict and unrest. Emperor Vitellius was eventually defeated by the forces of Vespasian, who became the next emperor. Vitellius' rule is often considered a low point in the history of the Roman Empire and is known for its excess and lack of stability.

Gambling and gluttony, two vices associated with Vitellius, would be crucial to his future. Emperor Galba made the unpopular choice to designate him as governor of Lower Germany in 68

Rome and Carthage engaged in three Punic wars. Punic, a late variety of Phoenician, is a language that is used to refer to Carthage or the Carthaginians. Hannibal's route across the alps during the second Punic war is probably the most remembered. But, for a long time, these two major powers in the western Mediterranean fought for supremacy. In fact, huge losses on both sides occurred.

The Mediterranean island of Sicily and its surrounding waters served as the primary theater of the First Punic War, which took place over a 23-year period (264–241 BC). Meanwhile, they also fought in North Africa. After such a prolonged struggle the first Punic war ended in a loss for Carthage. However, Carthaginians were still itching to fight the Romans. Carthage suffered extensive economic losses in Sicily. They, therefore, had to come up with a plan to strengthen its faltering economy.

When talking about groups of people in ancient times some people wonder "who were the Thracians?" It is curious that many don't know much about them even though they were an Indo-European people who dominated a large area of Eastern Europe. They inhabited what today is modern day Bulgaria, Turkey and Greece. In fact, they occupied this area for much of antiquity.

We can find some of the earliest literary references of the Thracians from the Iliad. The epic poem of Homer referenced the Trojan War and King Rhesus who was a local Thracian ruler. The problem about Thracians is that they were divided between multiple tribes. They all had their own tribal identity and basically did things differently. Interestingly, The Thracians did not describe themselves by name. The term Thrace and Thracians were names given to them by the Greeks.

If you’re new to the rare coin industry, you may have a few questions about rare coins and their values. At Austin Rare Coins, we’re here to help collectors, buyers, and sellers alike. 4 common questions about rare coins we often are approached with that provide valuable insight into collecting rare coins are listed below.

What Are Rare Coin Values?

This question doesn’t always have a set answer, unfortunately. While certain coins are well-known to be valuable, such as Buffalo Nickels, many coins fluctuate in value. If you think you have a very rare and valuable coin, reach out to our team today. However, even though we do buy Modern Bullion Gold, Silver, Platinum & Palladium as well as rare U.S. & Ancient Coins, there is a $5,000 minimum. If you feel you are within our minimum parameters, call

What Ancient Roman coins were made of silver is a question we frequently get. This NGC Certified Roman coin minted by Emperor Otho for instance, is a great example, and it is a beautiful coin. Finding a Silver Denarius in Choice Extremely Fine Condition with 3.54 grams of silver is not an easy task.

On the front of this Otho Silver Denarius you'll find the likeness of Emperor OTHO CAESAR with his head facing right. On the reverse, seen advancing left, you'll find the likeness of VICTORIA. She is the Roman Goddess of Victory.

Marcus Otho Caesar Augustus was born Marcus Salvius