Denarius - Hadrian (P M TR P COS III LIBERAL AVG III; Liberalitas) (120-121) front Denarius - Hadrian (P M TR P COS III LIBERAL AVG III; Liberalitas) (120-121) back
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Denarius - Hadrian P M TR P COS III LIBERAL AVG III; Liberalitas

 
Silver 3.2 g 18.5 mm
Description
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
References
Numista
N#254868
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." The coin's design may have been intended to highlight the emperor's reputation for generosity and his efforts to promote prosperity throughout the empire.