The Barbarous Radiate is an unofficial imitation of the Roman antoninianus coin, primarily minted during the Crisis of the Third Century (circa 259–274 AD) in the western provinces of the Roman Empire. These coins are characterized by a crude style and prominently feature the radiate crown worn by the emperor on the obverse, which is why they are called “radiates.” Unlike official issues, barbarous radiates tend to be smaller, more roughly struck, and were likely produced locally as small change to address a shortage of official coinage during economic difficulties.​

Barbarous radiates circulated mainly in Britain and Gaul but can also be found in other parts of the former Gallic Empire. Despite being unofficial, they were used alongside official coins rather than as deceptive forgeries. The crude artistry reflects their unofficial and local production, with variations in design elements and occasional mixing of die types. These coins provide valuable archaeological and historical insights into economic conditions and local minting practices during a turbulent era of the Roman Empire.​

The coin described as a “Barbarous Radiate, 3rd-5th Century AD, Æ Unit, NGC Certified” is an example of this type of coin, graded and certified by NGC for authenticity and condition. These coins vary widely in size and details but generally show the radiate crown and typical reverse imagery associated with Roman imperial coinage. They hold interest for collectors of ancient coins, especially those focused on Roman provincial and crisis-era coinage, offering a glimpse into local economies and unofficial minting during the late Roman period.​

In summary, a barbarous radiate is a locally produced, unofficial imitation of the Roman antoninianus from the 3rd to 5th centuries AD. Despite their crude appearance, they carry significant historical importance and collectibility as artifacts of economic adaptation during the Roman Empire’s crisis years.​