Aureus - Hadrian ANN DCCCLXXIIII NAT VRB P CIR CON; Genius
121 year| Gold | 6.9 g | 19 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Hadrian (Publius Aelius Hadrianus) (117-138) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 121 |
| Value | 1 Aureus = 25 Denarii |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 6.9 g |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#254910 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Genius of the Circus, reclining left, head right, holding chariot wheel and placing other arm around three obelisks set on hippodrome spina.
Script: Latin
Lettering: ANN DCCCLXXIIII NAT VRB P CIR CON
Translation:
Anno DCCCLXXIIII Natali Urbis Populo (Plebei or Primum) Circenses Concessit.
In the 874th year after the birth of the city [of Rome], a circus is given to the people.
Comment
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Aureus - Hadrian coin is that it features a unique reverse design, depicting the Genius of the Roman people, which was a personification of the spirit of Rome and its people. This design was introduced by Emperor Hadrian and was used on many of his coins. The coin's reverse also includes the inscription "NAT VRB P CIR CON," which stands for "Natura Urbis Romae Conservata," or "The Nature of the City of Rome Preserved." This inscription highlights the importance of the Roman Empire's capital city and the efforts of the emperor to maintain its grandeur.