Sestertius - Hadrian (// COS III) (128) front Sestertius - Hadrian (// COS III) (128) back
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Sestertius - Hadrian // COS III

128 year
Orichalcum 25 g 32.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Hadrian (Publius Aelius Hadrianus) (117-138)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
128
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
References
Numista
N#257219
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

IOVI / OPTIMO / MAXIMO / SPQR within oak wreath.

Script: Latin

Lettering: // COS III

Translation:
Consul Tertium.
Consul for the third time.

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 coins during the Roman Empire adds to their historical significance and value.