© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Denarius - Commodus OPTIME MAXIME C V P P; Jupiter
| Silver | 3 g | 13 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Commodus (Lucius Aurelius Commodus) (177-192) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 186-189 |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3 g |
| Diameter | 13 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#265416 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
Jupiter, nude, standing left, holding thunderbolt in right hand and sceptre in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: OPTIME MAXIME C V P P
Translation:
Optime Maxime, Consul Quintum, Pater Patriae.
The best and the greatest, consul for the fifth time, father of the nation.
Comment
Mass varies: 2.365–3.8 g;Diameter varies: 5–17 mm;
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 Jupiter, the Roman god of thunder, on the reverse side. This was a common practice during the Roman Empire, as many coins featured images of gods and goddesses to symbolize the power and authority of the Roman state. The image of Jupiter on this coin is particularly notable because it was used during the reign of Commodus, who was known for his extravagance and excesses. Despite his controversial rule, the coin remains a valuable piece of history and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire.
