Sestertius - Hadrian AEGYPTOS S C; Egypt
| 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#256080 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Aegyptos reclining left, holding sistrum and resting on fruit basket; to left, ibis, usually on a low column.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
AEGYPTOS
S C
Translation:
Aegyptos. Senatus Consultum.
Egypt. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
The Sestertius coin , which features Hadrian and was minted in Egypt during his reign (130-133 AD), is made of a metal called Orichalcum. Orichalcum was a type of brass alloy that was highly valued in ancient times for its durability and golden-like appearance. It was often used to mint coins and other objects of high value, and its use was reserved for the most important and prestigious coins. The fact that this coin was made of Orichalcum speaks to the importance and wealth of the Roman Empire during Hadrian's reign.