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How a Silver Coin Killed the Roman Empire

How a Silver Coin Killed the Roman Empire

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For two centuries, Rome printed its way into collapse. The denarius — once 95% silver — fell to just 5%, triggering hyperinflation, military breakdown, trade collapse, black markets, and the rise of barbarian mercenaries who would one day sack the Eternal City.In this deep-dive, I break down the real reason Rome fell — not barbarians, not decadence, but a complete destruction of its currency. This is the story of how emperors from Nero to Diocletian debased Roman money until the economy imploded.You’ll learn:– How the denarius was slowly destroyed– Why debasement triggered hyperinflation– How Rome’s army became loyal to whoever paid them– Why Diocletian’s price controls caused mass shortages– How Constantine tried (and failed) to save the system– Why this historical pattern looks terrifyingly familiar todayIf you care about history, economics, or the future of money — this is essential watching.Subscribe for more Roman Empire deep dives and historical warnings.00:00 – When Money Dies: The Coin That Broke an Empire01:12 – Rome’s Silver Promise: How the Denarius Built a World Power03:04 – Nero’s Big Mistake: The First Debasement05:02 – The Slow Collapse: Emperors Who Hollowed Out Roman Money06:41 – Crisis of the Third Century: 26 Emperors, 50 Years08:15 – Hyperinflation Hits Rome: Prices Explode Overnight10:11 – The Army Turns: Soldiers Paid in Worthless Coins12:00 – Trade Breakdown & Diocletian’s Price Control Disaster14:25 – Constantine’s Gold Fix & the Two-Tier Economy16:08 – The Real Fall of Rome & The Warning for Modern America18:10 – Final Thoughts: History Doesn’t Repeat, But It Rhymes

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