Sestertius - Hadrian // COS III P P
| 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 | 129-130 |
| 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#257226 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hadrian standing left, raising hand and holding spear; to left, three standards; to right, two standards.
Script: Latin
Lettering: // COS III P P
Translation:
Consul Tertium, Pater Patriae.
Consul for the third time, father of the nation.
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.