20 euro - Aguntum

Series: Austria - Rome on the Danube

Image of 20 euro coin - Aguntum | Austria 2011.  The Silver coin is of Proof quality.

The fourth coin in the series "Rome on the Danube" shows the former trade centre of Aguntum and the Christian Emperor under whose reign the Roman city in the East Tyrol once again flourished.

Almost 2,000 years ago, Aguntum was elevated to a municipality under the Roman Emperor Claudius and developed into an important centre of trade. On September 7, the new silver coin "Aguntum" will be issued in a guaranteed maximum mintage of 50,000 pieces.

The six-part coin series illustrates life at a time when Rome reigned over Austria and great swathes of the known world. Beginning with the Noric capital of Virunum, these silver coins depict important border towns such as Vindobona (Vienna), Carnuntum, Lauriacum (Lorch/Enns), Aguntum (near Lienz) and Brigantium (Bregenz).

The obverse of the coin shows the profile of Emperor Constantius II on the right. During his reign Aguntum experienced its greatest economic boom. Highlighted in the background are the remains of a gate located in the artisan quarter of Arguntum.

The reverse depicts a market scene in Aguntum. Elevated to a municipality 2,000 years ago, it was the centre of trade in the region. In the foreground, a merchant is offering his goods. To the right, a woman shows interest in his merchandise. In the background, the Forum and the Lienz Dolomites are to be seen.