The denarius was a silver coin used in ancient Rome, first minted around 211 BC. It became the standard currency for trade and commerce throughout the Roman Empire. The denarius was typically worth ten asses, another Roman coin, and was often stamped with images of gods, emperors, or important events, making it not just a medium of exchange but also a way to convey political messages. As the Roman Empire expanded, the denarius facilitated trade across vast distances, helping to unify the economy. Over time, its value fluctuated due to inflation and changes in silver content, reflecting the economic challenges faced by the empire. The denarius remains a significant symbol of Roman history and its influence on modern currency systems.