Aureus - Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius (AVRELIVS CAES AVG PII F COS DES) (139) front Aureus - Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius (AVRELIVS CAES AVG PII F COS DES) (139) back
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Aureus - Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius AVRELIVS CAES AVG PII F COS DES

139 year
Gold - -
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Antoninus Pius (Titus Aelius Hadrianus Antoninus Pius) (138-161)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
139
Value
1 Aureus = 25 Denarii
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Gold
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#260477
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Head of Marcus Aurelius, bare, left.

Script: Latin

Lettering: AVRELIVS CAES AVG PII F COS DES

Translation:
Aurelius Caesar, Augusti Pii Filius, Consul Designatus.
[Marcus] Aurelius, Caesar, son of emperor (Augustus) [Antoninus] Pius, consul elect.

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Aureus coin is that it was used as a means of propaganda by the Roman Empire. The coin features an image of Marcus Aurelius and his adoptive father Antoninus Pius, which was meant to promote the idea of a peaceful and harmonious transition of power within the empire. Additionally, the coin's inscription highlights the emperors' titles and accomplishments, further solidifying their legitimacy and authority. This coin is a prime example of how currency was used as a tool for political messaging and image-building in ancient Rome.