Sestertius - Hadrian ADVENTVI AVG AFRICAE S C; Africa
| Orichalcum | 25 g | 32.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Hadrian (Publius Aelius Hadrianus) (117-138) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 130-133 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Orichalcum |
| Weight | 25 g |
| Diameter | 32.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#256199 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hadrian standing right, raising hand and holding scroll; facing him, Africa, wearing elephant scalp, standing left, holding patera and corn ears; between them, altar, with bull usually at the base.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
ADVENTVI AVG AFRICAE
S C
Unabridged legend: Adventui Augusti Africae. Senatus Consultum.
Translation: Adventus (Roman welcoming ceremony) of the emperor to Africa. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that the metal used to make it, orichalcum, is a mysterious and rare metal that was highly valued in ancient times. It is believed to be a brass-like alloy, but its exact composition is unknown, and it is no longer used today. The use of orichalcum in the production of this coin reflects the wealth and power of the Roman Empire during the reign of Emperor Hadrian.