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Roman Counterfeiter's Coin Mold - PF.1606
Origin: Mediterranean
Circa: 250 AD to 350 AD
Dimensions: 1" (2.5cm) high x 1.25" (3.2cm) wide
Collection: Roman Coins
Medium: Terracotta

$180.00
Location: United States

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Description

This unusual artifact provides an important footnote to the history of numismatics. It is an ancient counterfeiter's mold, used to create coins in imitation of the Imperial issues. Since official coinage was minted by hand, there was considerable variation in the shape and appearance of coins. Therefore, a forgery was less likely to be spotted for its inconsistencies. The mold was used to shape coins rather than to strike them with dies. The finished products were probably circulated in and around an army camp or adjoining towns where there was quick exchange of money. Economic and political turmoil of the late 3rd and early 4th centuries provided a perfect environment for forgeries. This fascinating mold adds an intriguing element to our impressions of antiquity. - (PF.1606)

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