A History of Ancient Rome in Twelve Coins

By: Gareth Harney

Narrated by: Piers Hampton

Hold the glory—and infamy—of ancient Rome in the palm of your hand with this “brilliant combination of history and storytelling” (Conn Iggulden, author of the Emperor series) as it explores history’s greatest superpower, as told through humanity’s most universal object: the coin.

When Gareth Harney was first given a Roman coin as a child, he became entranced by its beauty, and its unique ability to connect us with the past. He soon learned that the Romans saw coins as far more than just currency—these were metal canvases on which they immortalized their sacred gods, mighty emperors, towering monuments, and brutal battles of conquest. Revealed in those intricate designs struck in gold, silver, and bronze was the epic story of the Roman Empire.

Now, with his “novel and highly readable” (Philip Matyszak, author of The Blood-Red Sunset) voice and engaging research, Harney traces ancient Rome’s rise, from a few huts on an Italian hilltop to an all-conquering empire spanning three continents, through the fascinating lives of twelve remarkable coins. A unique and enthralling “combination of history and expert storytelling” (Emma Southon, author of A History of the Roman Empire in 21 Women) for all history buffs.

Critic reviews

"Deep-voiced Piers Hampton fluidly recounts the history of Rome from its earliest days to its collapse through beautiful handcrafted coins of the realm...Hampton’s voice lovingly caresses the coins and coils around age-old stories that range from Aeneas and his family escaping from Troy to the she-wolf suckling Romulus and Remus, Hannibal crossing the Alps, Julius Caesar’s murder, and the ascent of Constantine and Christianity followed by their ignoble fall under the Visigoths. Hampton imbues the vividly carved coinage, echoes of which are seen in today’s coins, with life and context."

"Deep-voiced Piers Hampton fluidly recounts the history of Rome from its earliest days to its collapse through beautiful handcrafted coins of the realm...Hampton’s voice lovingly caresses the coins and coils around age-old stories that range from Aeneas and his family escaping from Troy to the she-wolf suckling Romulus and Remus, Hannibal crossing the Alps, Julius Caesar’s murder, and the ascent of Constantine and Christianity followed by their ignoble fall under the Visigoths. Hampton imbues the vividly carved coinage, echoes of which are seen in today’s coins, with life and context."

Excellent history of Rome, well written & read

A very well-written and engaging history of Rome, and the reader is excellent. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Great book

This was an amazing audiobook. I loved the history and the narrator’s voice. I will most likely listen to it again someday. Thank you!

Outstanding!

One of the best, most engaging books I have read in a long time! Recommend 100%

Surprisingly good

I had no expectations going in, but the storytelling was quite good. Also, More than 12 coins are discussed.