The As is one of several Roman denominations. In earlier posts I wrote about the denarius, the sestertius, the aureus and the solidus. The as was introduced circa 280 BCE as a bronze coin. Its initial weight was representative of 1 Roman pound (libra). The as was the base of the Roman coinage system (see this article), with fraction coins and multiple coins according to their value.

Fraction coins were: semis (1/2 as), triens (1/3 as), quadrans (1/4 as), sextans (1/6), and uncia (1/12 as). The uncia is the origin of the concept of ounce.

Multiple coins were: dupondius (2 as), sestertius (2.5 as), tressis (3 as), quadrusse (4 as), quincussis (5 as), and denarius (10 as).

The value of the as was progressively reduced as time passed, adopting the value of its fractions.

Following the monetary reform of Augustus in 23 BCE, the weight of the as was reduced to 1/30 of pound. It was minted on pure red copper by then.

Other Posts about ancient Roman Currency

• The Denarius
• The Sestertius
• The Aureus
• The Solidus

This post is intended to only raise awareness. In order to make actual financial decisions please contact your financial advisor and/or tax advisor prior to making the decision.