Dupondius - Antoninus Pius (SALVS AVG COS IIII S C; Salus) (152-153) front Dupondius - Antoninus Pius (SALVS AVG COS IIII S C; Salus) (152-153) back
Dupondius - Antoninus Pius (SALVS AVG COS IIII S C; Salus) (152-153) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Dupondius - Antoninus Pius SALVS AVG COS IIII S C; Salus

 
Bronze 11.9 g -
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Antoninus Pius (Titus Aelius Hadrianus Antoninus Pius) (138-161)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
152-153
Value
1 Dupondius = ⅛ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
11.9 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#261240
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Salus, draped, standing left, feeding out of patera in right hand snake coiled round altar left and holding sceptre, vertical, in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: SALVS AVG COS IIII S C

Translation:
Salus Augusti. Consul Quartum. Senatus Consultum.
Health of the emperor (Augustus). Consul for the fourth time. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 10.78–13.05 g;

Example of this type:
Trustees of the British Museum

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Dupondius coin featuring Antoninus Pius and the goddess Salus is notable for its depiction of the Roman Empire's official ideology during the 2nd century AD. The coin's reverse side features Salus, the goddess of safety and well-being, standing next to a column and holding a patera, a ritual offering dish. This image symbolizes the Roman Empire's focus on maintaining peace and prosperity throughout its territories. The coin's obverse side features Antoninus Pius, who was known for his wise and peaceful rule, further emphasizing the theme of stability and security. Overall, this coin serves as a tangible reminder of the Roman Empire's values and priorities during the 2nd century AD.