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An ancient gold coin proves that a third century Roman emperor written out of history as a fictional character really did exist, scientists say. The coin bearing the name of Sponsian and his portrait was found more than 300 years ago in Transylvania, once a far-flung outpost of the Roman empire. Believed to be a fake, it had been locked away in a museum cupboard. Now scientists say scratch marks visible under a microscope prove that it was in circulation 2,000 years ago. Newshour's Tim Franks has been speaking to Professor Paul Pearson fom University College London, the lead researcher on the project. Photo shows: An ancient gold coin which proves the existence of third century Roman emperor Sponsian, scientists say. Credit: Â鶹Éç