Spintria, Brothel Coin No. VIIII

Roman Spintria No. VIIII (9)

Replica of an ancient brothel and gambling token

This detailed replica of a Roman spintria brings an authentic piece of ancient life right into your hands – ideal for re-enactors, collectors and lovers of everyday Roman culture.

Made of gold-coloured brass bronze like the originals from the early imperial period, it impresses with its high-quality craftsmanship, historical accuracy and realistic appearance. The coin is also available in solid 925 silver. It is handcrafted in our own workshop.

The front shows a typical erotic scene, as is often depicted on these rare tokens from the 1st century AD.

The back bears the ancient Roman number VIIII (9) – one of the well-known variants that can also be found on many preserved spintriae.

With a diameter of approximately 22 mm, the piece corresponds exactly to its historical models.

On request, it can be fitted with a small eyelet – ideal as a prop, jewellery pendant or authentic collector's item.

Spintriae – mysterious tokens of everyday Roman life

The so-called spintriae are among the most fascinating small finds of the early imperial period.

Their exact function has not yet been conclusively clarified, but they provide a rare insight into the permissive, humorous and at the same time artistic side of Roman society.

Theories about their use

Tokens for brothels:

The most likely explanation is that spintriae served as tokens of payment in brothels.

Customers could purchase them from the operator and then redeem them in the establishment – a discreet form of payment that kept the emperor and his depictions on official coins out of this context.

Gaming or social tokens:

Other theories see them as gaming tokens, perhaps part of erotic or social games that were popular in the villas of the upper classes.

Finds and historical background

Most known examples date from the early 1st century AD, mainly from Pompeii and Herculaneum.

After the destruction of these cities, they almost completely disappeared from archaeological finds – an indication of social changes or moral reforms in the later imperial period.

Today, original spintriae can be admired in major museums, including the British Museum (London), the Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli.

A piece of Roman sensuality and craftsmanship

This replica brings a mysterious chapter of Roman culture to life.

It stands for joie de vivre, openness and craftsmanship – for those little things that make everyday life in the Roman Empire so fascinating.

Whether as a collector's item, prop or part of a historical display, the Spintria No. VIIII is an authentic, tangible piece of Roman history.