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How much were the Roman soldiers paid?

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From the time of Gaius Marius onwards, legionaries received 225 denarii a year; this basic rate remained unchanged until Domitian, who increased it to 300 denarii. In spite of the steady inflation during the 2nd century, there was no further rise until the time of Septimius Severus, who increased it to 500 denarii a year. read more

In addition to the currency they received from the Empire, Roman soldiers were paid in portions of salt, which served as a commodity during the time period. The cost of food and arms for each soldier was deducted from his salary, which was contingent on his rank. read more

The Roman Empire lasted for over 14 centuries. There were hundreds of rulers. There were varying economic conditions. There were times of peace there were times of war. There times of victory and plunder there were times of defeat. As in any army there were various ranks and experience. I suspect all these factors played a role in the pay rate. read more

I'd recommend Mark Hassall's "The Army" in Cambridge Ancient History Vol. 11 for a general overview, or Brian Campbell's The Roman Army, 31 BC - AD 337: A Sourcebook for more in-depth information drawn from primary sources. read more

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