Dupondius - Marcus Aurelius (IMP VIII COS III DE SARM S C) (176-177) front Dupondius - Marcus Aurelius (IMP VIII COS III DE SARM S C) (176-177) back
Dupondius - Marcus Aurelius (IMP VIII COS III DE SARM S C) (176-177) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Dupondius - Marcus Aurelius IMP VIII COS III DE SARM S C

 
Bronze 11.2 g 24.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
176-177
Value
1 Dupondius = ⅛ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
11.2 g
Diameter
24.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#263896
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Trophy at base of which, Sarmatian, hands bound behind back, seated left, and Sarmatian woman, seated right.

Script: Latin

Lettering: IMP VIII COS III DE SARM S C

Translation:
Imperator Octavum, Consul Tertium. Devictus Sarmatis. Senatus Consultum.
Supreme commander (Imperator) for the eighth time, consul for the third time, conquered the Sarmatians. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 9.32–12.11 g;
Diameter varies: 24–25 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Dupondius coin , which features Marcus Aurelius, is notable for its depiction of the Roman emperor wearing a beard. This is significant because it was a departure from the traditional clean-shaven appearance of Roman emperors, and it may have been a nod to the emperor's philosophical beliefs. Marcus Aurelius was known for his interest in Stoicism, which emphasized the importance of living in accordance with reason and virtue. The beard may have been seen as a symbol of wisdom and philosophical contemplation, and it could have been a way for Marcus Aurelius to express his personal beliefs through his coinage.