© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Denarius - Marcus Aurelius IMP VII COS III; Genius
| Silver | 3.3 g | 18.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 174-175 |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.3 g |
| Diameter | 18.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#262980 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Genius, nude, standing left, holding patera in right hand and corn-ears in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: IMP VII COS III
Translation:
Imperator Septimum, Consul Tertium.
Supreme commander (Imperator) for the seventh time, consul for the third time.
Comment
Mass varies: 2.84–3.49 g;Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Denarius coin featuring Marcus Aurelius is notable for its depiction of the Roman emperor's portrait, which was designed to convey his wisdom and benevolence. The coin's obverse side features a left-facing bust of Marcus Aurelius, with his name "MARCUS AURELIUS" inscribed above and his title "IMP VII COS III" below. The reverse side shows a personification of the Genius of the Roman people, represented by a bearded man holding a scepter and a patera (a ritual offering dish), symbolizing the emperor's role as the protector and guide of the Roman people. The coin's design was meant to promote the idea of the emperor as a wise and just ruler, and it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Roman art and propaganda.
