Denarius - Commodus (COS P P; Salus) (177-178) front Denarius - Commodus (COS P P; Salus) (177-178) back
Denarius - Commodus (COS P P; Salus) (177-178) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Commodus COS P P; Salus

 
Silver 3 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
177-178
Value
1 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#263332
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Salus, draped, seated left on low seat, holding branch in extended right hand and resting left arm on side of seat: in front of her, left, a snake coiling upwards from ground.

Script: Latin

Lettering: COS P P

Translation:
Consul, Pater Patriae.
Consul, father of the nation.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.73–3.3 g;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Salus on the reverse side, which is unusual for a denarius coin. Salus was the goddess of safety, security, and well-being, and her presence on the coin may suggest that the Roman Empire was emphasizing the importance of these values during the reign of Commodus. Additionally, the coin's silver content and weight of 3 grams were standard for denarius coins during this period, indicating that it was a widely used and accessible form of currency.