When the Gallic Empire ended in AD 274, so did Britain’s supply of small change. So, over the next decade, British moneyers made their own small bronze coins – millions of them, says Dr Sam Moorhead – known today as ‘radiates’ from their radiate sun-crowns.

Bronze barbarous Radiate. 3^rd/4^th century AD. 12mm. 0.90g. Imitating Gallic usurper Tetricus I, AD 271-274. Radiate bust left, inscription around./ Figure standing, inscription around. VF, clear head and inscription. Found Northants.                                                                   Was £30. Now only £20