Aureus - Marcus Aurelius (SALVTI AVGVSTOR TR P XVIII COS III; Salus) (163-164) front Aureus - Marcus Aurelius (SALVTI AVGVSTOR TR P XVIII COS III; Salus) (163-164) back
Aureus - Marcus Aurelius (SALVTI AVGVSTOR TR P XVIII COS III; Salus) (163-164) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Aureus - Marcus Aurelius SALVTI AVGVSTOR TR P XVIII COS III; Salus

 
Gold 7.2 g 19.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
163-164
Value
1 Aureus = 25 Denarii
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Gold
Weight
7.2 g
Diameter
19.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#262758
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Salus, draped, standing left, feeding out of patera in right hand snake coiled round altar and holding transverse sceptre in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: SALVTI AVGVSTOR TR P XVIII COS III

Translation:
Saluti Augustorum. Tribunicia Potestate Octava Decima, Consul Tertium.
To the health of the emperor (Augustus). Holder of tribunician power for the 18th time, consul for the third time.

Comment

Mass varies: 7.22–7.27 g;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Aureus coin featuring Marcus Aurelius is considered one of the most beautiful coins of the Roman Empire, with its intricate design and high gold content. It was minted during a time when the Roman Empire was at the height of its power and influence, and the coin's design reflects the values and ideals of the Roman state at that time. The image of Marcus Aurelius on the coin is surrounded by symbols of the Roman state, such as the laurel wreath and the legend "SALVTI AVGVSTOR," which means "to the safety of the emperor." The coin's design and symbolism reflect the importance of the emperor's role in maintaining the safety and prosperity of the empire.