Tacitus AD 275-276. Serdica
Antoninianus Æ silvered

23 mm, 3,54 g

M CL TACITVS AVG, radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right / CLEMENTIA TEMP, Mars standing left, holding olive branch, spear and shield; P in exergue.

Very Fine

RIC online 3862.

"CLEMENTIA TEMP" is a Latin inscription found on some ancient Roman coins. It translates to "Mercy of the Times" or "Forbearance of the Age." In Roman numismatics, coins often bore inscriptions reflecting the virtues or attributes of the ruling emperor. "CLEMENTIA TEMP" indicated the emperor's magnanimity, clemency, or leniency during his reign. It symbolized the emperor's benevolence and willingness to show mercy or forgiveness to those who may have been considered enemies or offenders. By inscribing on coins, the emperor conveyed a message of conciliation and harmony within the empire, emphasizing his role as a just and compassionate ruler. The inscription served as a reminder of the emperor's virtue and enlightened approach to governance, aiming to win the loyalty and admiration of his subjects.