© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Denarius - Hadrian P M TR P COS III LIBERAL AVG III; Liberalitas
| Silver | 3.2 g | 18.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Hadrian (Publius Aelius Hadrianus) (117-138) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 120-121 |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.2 g |
| Diameter | 18.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#254867 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hadrian seated left on platform, writing at desk with pen, rarely under awning; behind, statue (?) of Liberalitas standing facing, holding coin scoop; citizen ascending steps before platform, holding out fold of toga; behind Hadrian, attendant standing or mounting platform rear steps.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
P M TR P COS III
LIBERAL AVG
III
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate, Consul Tertium. Liberalitas Augusti Tertia.
High priest, holder of tribunician power, consul for the third time. The third liberality of the emperor (Augustus).
Comment
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 Liberalitas, who represents liberality or generosity, on the reverse side. This is fitting, as the name Hadrian is derived from the Latin word "hadrianus," meaning "liberal" or "generous." The inclusion of this image and the name Hadrian on the coin may suggest that the Roman Empire under Hadrian's rule valued the idea of generosity and liberality, and sought to promote these values through their currency.
