© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Denarius - Marcus Aurelius VIRTVS COS II; Virtus
| Silver | 3.1 g | 17.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Antoninus Pius (Titus Aelius Hadrianus Antoninus Pius) (138-161) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 145-160 |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.1 g |
| Diameter | 17.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#260525 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Virtus, helmeted, draped, standing right, holding vertical spear in right hand and parazonium upright in left; left foot, bent,is on helmet.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVS COS II
Translation:
Virtus. Consul Secundum.
Courage. Consul for the second time.
Comment
Mass varies: 2.75–3.44 g;Diameter varies: 16.5–18 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 (VIRTVS COS II; Virtus) was minted during a time of significant cultural and religious change in the Roman Empire. The emperor Marcus Aurelius was known for his philosophical writings and his efforts to promote the cult of the Roman state goddess, Virtus. The coin's design, featuring the image of Marcus Aurelius and the inscription "VIRTVS COS II," reflects this focus on virtue and the promotion of Roman values.
