Denarius - Marcus Aurelius (COS III; Mars) (170-171) front Denarius - Marcus Aurelius (COS III; Mars) (170-171) back
Denarius - Marcus Aurelius (COS III; Mars) (170-171) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Marcus Aurelius COS III; Mars

 
Silver 3.4 g 18.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
170-171
Value
1 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.4 g
Diameter
18.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#262895
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Mars, helmeted, naked except for cloak flying behind, advancing right, holding transverse spear in right hand and trophy, over left shoulder, in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: COS III

Translation:
Consul Tertium.
Consul for the third time.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.83–3.81 g;
Diameter varies: 16.5–19 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Denarius coin featuring Marcus Aurelius (COS III; Mars) was minted during a time of significant military campaigns and territorial expansion for the Roman Empire. Despite the challenges of war and governance, the coin's design remained consistent with previous issues, featuring the emperor's portrait on one side and the god Mars on the other. This suggests that the Roman Empire placed great importance on maintaining a strong and stable currency, even during times of conflict and change.