Denarius - Marcus Aurelius (COS III; Salus) (169-170) front Denarius - Marcus Aurelius (COS III; Salus) (169-170) back
Denarius - Marcus Aurelius (COS III; Salus) (169-170) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Marcus Aurelius COS III; Salus

 
Silver 3.1 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
169-170
Value
1 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.1 g
Diameter
18.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#262879
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Salus, draped, standing right, feeding with round object in left hand a snake which she holds in her right hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: COS III

Translation:
Consul Tertium.
Consul for the third time.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.05–3.67 g;
Diameter varies: 18–18.5 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Denarius - Marcus Aurelius (COS III; Salus) coin features a unique reverse design that depicts the goddess Salus, who is often associated with the personification of health, prosperity, and well-being. This design was a deliberate choice made by Marcus Aurelius, who was known for his philosophical ideas and his focus on promoting the welfare of the Roman people. By featuring Salus on the coin, Marcus Aurelius was able to convey his vision of a healthy and prosperous Roman Empire, which was an important message during a time of political and social upheaval.