I've done little research on this coin. And I'm new to this so all information is appreciated. I know it is from around 300 AD and is called a Roman follis coin. I don't know who is on the obverse, the reverse, how much it is roughly worth to a coin collector AND why mine (compared to one's I've seen online) seems to be more silver/shiny as opposed to cropper/brass looking. All help appreciated!
That is of the emperor Diocletian and struck at the Antioch mint. The reverse depicts a personification of the "genius of the Roman people." In that era, the coins were coated with a thin layer of silver, responsible for the appearance of the coin. Specifically, the coin's RIC catalog number is RIC vi, p. 620, 54a: It is Sear 12797. It's worth $15 or so.
I agree with RC, with the Genio reverse and mint marks it is probably a brother to this one in CNG archives...https://www.cngcoins.com/Coin.aspx?CoinID=59809
Considering the appearance of the coin and the degree of wear, I'd be very surprised if the 'silver' seen on the surface is original. It was much more likely applied in modern times.
I agree with Zumbly. That silvering doesn't have the characteristics of original silvering. By modern times though this could be anywhere in the last 200 or so years. There was a trend at one point where 19th century collectors felt it was a good idea to re-silver their coin.
The thin layer of silver rarely survives perfectly intact but at least can not remain on high points of the coin that show wear. Usually the last places to retain silver are recesses. The one below (different mint) is typically half silvered and not necessarily as attractive as a coin that is all copper color. Note the darker color shows through on the high points.
If you like Roman coins like this, there are a lot to choose from for most Emperors. The great thing about these bronze coins is that you can typically get nice examples of them for $5-20 for pretty much anyone you decide you like. The reference works and what not are pretty easy to understand when you get the hang of it. I know these coins pretty well because I collect them by Emperor/mint. I in turn have also started adding Greek coins and the folks here help me there. We're a friendly bunch.
