


© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Denarius - Marcus Aurelius COS III; Mars
Silver | 3.4 g | 18.5 mm |
Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
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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 |
Numista | N#262895 |
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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.