Dupondius - Marcus Aurelius (VICT GER (A) IMP VI COS III S C) (172-173) front Dupondius - Marcus Aurelius (VICT GER (A) IMP VI COS III S C) (172-173) back
Dupondius - Marcus Aurelius (VICT GER (A) IMP VI COS III S C) (172-173) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Dupondius - Marcus Aurelius VICT GER A IMP VI COS III S C

 
Bronze 12.4 g 25 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
172-173
Value
1 Dupondius = ⅛ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
12.4 g
Diameter
25 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#263797
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Legend in five lines within laurel-wreath.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VICT GERM(A) IMP VI COS III S C

Translation:
Victoria Germanica. Imperator Sextum, Consul Tertium. Senatus Consultum.
Victory over the Germans. Supreme commander (Imperator) for the sixth time, consul for the third time. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 12.06–12.75 g;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Dupondius coin was a widely used denomination during the Roman Empire, and the one , featuring Marcus Aurelius, is particularly interesting because it was issued during a time of significant cultural and religious change in the empire. Marcus Aurelius, who ruled from 161 to 180 AD, was known for his philosophical writings and his efforts to promote Stoicism, a philosophy that emphasized reason, self-control, and inner strength. During his reign, he introduced a number of reforms aimed at promoting the arts, sciences, and religion, and he encouraged the construction of public buildings, roads, and aqueducts. The coin , which features Marcus Aurelius and the goddess Victory, was likely issued to commemorate one of his military victories or to promote his image as a powerful and wise leader. The fact that it was made of bronze, a relatively inexpensive metal, suggests that it was intended for widespread circulation among the general population, rather than being a rare or commemorative coin. Overall, the Dupondius coin featuring Marcus Aurelius is a fascinating piece of history that provides a glimpse into the cultural and political landscape of the Roman Empire during a time of significant change and upheaval.