Denarius - Commodus (SPES PVBLICA; Spes) (175-176) front Denarius - Commodus (SPES PVBLICA; Spes) (175-176) back
Denarius - Commodus (SPES PVBLICA; Spes) (175-176) photo
© Museu de Prehistòria de València

Denarius - Commodus SPES PVBLICA; Spes

 
Silver 3.2 g -
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
175-176
Value
1 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.2 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#263300
Rarity index
93%

Reverse

Spes, draped, advancing left, holding up flower-bud in right hand and gathering up fold of skirt in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: SPES PVBLICA

Translation:
Spes Publica.
Hope of the public.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.93–3.39 g;

Example of this type:
Museu de Prehistòria de València

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Denarius - Commodus (SPES PVBLICA; Spes) coin is that it features the goddess Spes (which means "hope" in Latin) on the reverse side, which was a common motif in Roman coinage during the reign of Commodus. This coin was minted during a time when the Roman Empire was experiencing significant political and economic instability, and the image of Spes was likely intended to convey a sense of optimism and reassurance to the public. Despite the challenges of the time, the coin's silver content and well-preserved condition make it a valuable and sought-after collector's item today.