Sestertius - Hadrian ADVENTVI AVG ARABIAE S C; Arabia
| 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 |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#256214 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hadrian standing right, raising hand and holding scroll; facing him, Arabia standing left, holding patera and sticks (cinnamon or incense?); between them, altar, usually with bull at the base.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
ADVENTVI AVG ARABIAE
S C
Translation:
Adventui Augusti Arabiae. Senatus Consultum.
Adventus (Roman welcoming ceremony) of the emperor (Augustus) to Arabia. 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 alloy that was highly valued in ancient times. The exact composition of orichalcum is unknown, but it is believed to be a mixture of gold, silver, and other metals. The use of orichalcum in the production of coins was reserved for special occasions, such as the celebration of military victories or the reign of a new emperor. The fact that this coin was made of orichalcum suggests that it was a special issue coin, possibly minted to commemorate a significant event or to promote the Roman Empire's expansion into Arabia.