© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
As - Commodus HERC COMMODIANO P M TR P XVI COS VI S C; Hercules
| Bronze | 7.3 g | 22 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Commodus (Lucius Aurelius Commodus) (177-192) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 190-191 |
| Value | As = 1⁄16 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 7.3 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#265980 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hercules, nude, standing left, sacrificing with patera in right hand over altar and holding cornucopiae in left hand; at left, tree on which hangs lion-skin.
Script: Latin
Lettering: HERC COMMODIANO P M TR P XVI COS VI S C
Translation:
Hercules Commodiano, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Sexta Decima, Consul Sextum. Senatus Consultum.
Hercules Commodianus, high priest, holder of tribunician power for the 16th time, consul for the sixth time. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Example of this type:American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The coin features an image of Hercules on the reverse, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Commodus. Hercules was a popular figure in Roman mythology and was often associated with strength and power, which made him an appropriate symbol for the Roman Empire. The image of Hercules on this coin is particularly interesting because it shows him holding a club and wearing a lion's skin, which are two of his iconic attributes. This design choice was likely meant to emphasize Commodus' own strength and power as a ruler, and to associate him with the legendary heroism of Hercules.
