Dupondius - Hadrian VIRTVTI AVGVSTI S C; Virtus
| 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 |
| Years | 119-120 |
| 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#254844 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Virtus standing right, resting foot on helmet, holding spear and parazonium.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
VIRTVTI AVGVSTI
S C
Translation:
Virtuti Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
To the courage of the emperor. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
The Dupondius coin featuring Emperor Hadrian (VIRTVTI AVGVSTI S C; Virtus) from Rome, minted between 119-120 AD, is an interesting piece of history. One fascinating fact about this coin is that it was made of Orichalcum, a metal that was highly valued in ancient times for its durability and rarity. Orichalcum was a bronze-like alloy composed of copper, zinc, and sometimes small amounts of gold or silver. The use of this metal for coins was a testament to the advanced metallurgical skills of the Roman Empire during that time.