© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Dupondius - Hadrian DAC PARTHICO P M TR P COS P P FORT RED S C; Fortuna
117 year| Orichalcum | 12.5 g | 27 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Hadrian (Publius Aelius Hadrianus) (117-138) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 117 |
| Value | 1 Dupondius = ⅛ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Orichalcum |
| Weight | 12.5 g |
| Diameter | 27 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#254611 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Fortuna seated left, holding rudder and cornucopia.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
DAC PARTHICO P M TR P COS P P
FORT RED
S C
Translation:
Dacicus, Parthico, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate, Consul, Pater Patriae, Fortuna Redux. Senatus Consultum.
Conqueror of the Dacians, conqueror of the Parthians, high priest, holder of tribunician power, consul, father of the nation, fortune that brings back (the emperor in safety), decree of the senate.
Comment
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
The Dupondius - Hadrian coin features the goddess Fortuna on its reverse side, which is an interesting fact in itself. Fortuna was the Roman goddess of luck, prosperity, and good fortune, and she was often depicted holding a rudder or a wheel, symbolizing her control over the twists and turns of fate. However, what makes this coin particularly interesting is that it was made of Orichalcum, a metal that was highly valued in ancient times for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Orichalcum was a bronze-like alloy that was made from a combination of copper, zinc, and sometimes silver, and it was used to produce high-quality coins that could withstand the wear and tear of circulation. The fact that the Dupondius - Hadrian coin was made of Orichalcum speaks to the advanced metallurgical skills of the ancient Romans and their ability to produce coins that were both aesthetically pleasing and durable.
