© Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen (CC BY-NC 4.0 DE)
© Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen (CC BY-NC 4.0 DE)
Dupondius - Antoninus Pius PIETATI AVG COS IIII S C; Pietas
| Bronze | 11.6 g | 26 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Antoninus Pius (Titus Aelius Hadrianus Antoninus Pius) (138-161) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 159-160 |
| Value | 1 Dupondius = ⅛ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 11.6 g |
| Diameter | 26 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#261385 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Pietas, draped, standing left, holding globe on extended right hand and child in left arm: to left and right, a small child standing, left, each raising right hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: PIETATI AVG COS IIII S C
Translation:
Pietati Augustae, Consul Quartum. Senatus Consultum.
To the venerable piety, consul for the fourth time. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 9.28–14.93 g;Diameter varies: 24–27.04 mm;
Example of this type:
Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Dupondius coin was a common currency used throughout the Roman Empire during the reign of Antoninus Pius (138-161 AD). The coin's design features the image of Pietas, the goddess of duty and devotion, on the reverse side, while the obverse side bears the image of Antoninus Pius. The coin's bronze composition and 11.6g weight were standard for Dupondius coins during this period. Interestingly, the coin's design and inscriptions reflect the values and ideals of the Roman Empire during this time. The image of Pietas symbolizes the importance of duty and devotion to the state and the emperor, while the inscription "PIETATI AVG" (Pietas Augusti) on the reverse side translates to "To the Piety of the Emperor." This highlights the emphasis on the emperor's role as a divine authority and the expectation that citizens show devotion and loyalty to the state. Overall, the Dupondius - Antoninus Pius (PIETATI AVG COS IIII S C; Pietas) (159-160) coin provides a fascinating glimpse into the social, political, and economic context of the Roman Empire during the 2nd century AD.
