Sestertius - Hadrian (COS III P P CLEMENTIA AVG S C; Clementia) (129-130) front Sestertius - Hadrian (COS III P P CLEMENTIA AVG S C; Clementia) (129-130) back
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Sestertius - Hadrian COS III P P CLEMENTIA AVG S C; Clementia

 
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
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
References
Numista
N#255760
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Clementia standing left, holding patera and sceptre.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
COS III P P CLEMENTIA AVG
S C

Translation:
Consul Tertium, Pater Patriae, Clementia Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
Consul for the third time, father of the nation. Clemency of the emperor (Augustus). 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 issuance of commemorative coins, and its durability and resistance to corrosion made it an ideal material for coinage. The fact that this coin was made of orichalcum suggests that it was a high-quality and valuable coin in its time.