© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Dupondius - Hadrian PONT MAX TR POT COS IIFORT REDS 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#254726 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Fortuna seated left, holding rudder and cornucopia.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
PONT MAX TR POT COS II
FORT RED
S C
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate, Consul Secundum. Fortuna Redux. Senatus Consultum.
High priest, holder of tribunician power, consul for the second time. 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 coin featuring Emperor Hadrian (PONT MAX TR POT COS IIFORT REDS C; Fortuna) from Rome, made of Orichalcum and weighing 12.5g, is interesting because it showcases the advanced metallurgical techniques of the Roman Empire during the 2nd century AD. Orichalcum, a bronze-like alloy composed of copper, zinc, and sometimes tin, was a prized material for coinage due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. The fact that this coin has survived for nearly two millennia is a testament to the skill of the Roman metallurgists who produced it.
