[Roman Coins and Their Values Volume 3] [By: Sear, David] [December, 2005]

by David R. Sear

This third volume continues the comprehensive revision of this era, and covers in detail the next fifty years; a very different period during which the Empire came perilously close to total disintegration under the pressure of foreign invasions and seemingly interminable civil war. The economy also collapsed and with it the Imperial coinage, a desperate situation which was only partially alleviated by the currency reform of Aurelian undertaken late in his reign. The complexities of the mint attributes in this chaotic period lacking as the do in almost instance the name or initial of the responsible mint have been dealt with in light of recent scholarship.

Hardcover

First published September 1, 2005

Reviews

[Al · Rating 3 out of 5]

These volumes are Sear's update to his 1 volume 1988 edition. Valuation is significantly updated, and the coins are more fully described. The Tetrarchy and later Roman era are well represented, especially since the folles and AE2's and AE3's are a complicated series of issues. These volumes are a must for any Roman coin collector and are just as good as any of the specialist catalogues. Also, these volumes are easier to own and use than the 11 volume Roman Imperial Coinage.