Small Roman coin

[Zeeuwsepiep]

This coin is very small, came from an uncleaned lot and was found in the UK. Any tips will be sincerely appreciated!

[Vitruvius]

Hi Zeeuwsepiep,

It appears this coin may be:

Gratian AE3. 367-375 AD. D N GRATIANVS PF AVG, pearl-diademed draped bust right / SECVRITAS REPVBLICAE, Victory striding left with wreath & palm

Based on the portrait, it could also be Valens or Valentinian I who also issued similar types.  Can you read any of the legend on the obverse?  This may help give us a clue.

[Britannicus]

Could you tell us the diameter in millimetres? You write "very small". If it is indeed "very small" (by the standards of late Roman bronzes), that would probably rule out the AE 3 coins of Gratian and co.

Francis

[Zeeuwsepiep]

the diameter is 14 millimetres, hope this is helpful.

[Britannicus]

David Van Meter's Handbook of Roman Coins suggests 17-21 mm. for AE 3 coins and less than 17 mm. for AE 4. Unless this is a very runty AE 3 (not unknown!), your coin is probably an AE 4 type, and there are different possibilities here (reverse type Victoria). A photo that shows the lettering on the reverse might be helpful!