Aureus - Marcus Aurelius (COS II; Minerva) (145-160) front Aureus - Marcus Aurelius (COS II; Minerva) (145-160) back
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Aureus - Marcus Aurelius COS II; Minerva

 
Gold - -
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Antoninus Pius (Titus Aelius Hadrianus Antoninus Pius) (138-161)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
145-160
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#260514
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Minerva, helmeted, draped, standing right, holding vertical spear in right hand and resting left on round shield set on ground.

Script: Latin

Lettering: COS II

Translation:
Consul Secundum.
Consul for the second time.

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Aureus coin featuring Marcus Aurelius (COS II; Minerva) was part of a series of coins issued during his reign that depicted the Roman emperor in various guises, including as a military leader, a philosopher, and a god. This particular coin shows Marcus Aurelius wearing a radiate crown, which symbolized his connection to the sun god Apollo, and Minerva, the goddess of wisdom, on the reverse. The coin's design was meant to convey the emperor's wisdom, military prowess, and divine right to rule.