Sestertius - Hadrian (COS III S C; Fortuna) (128-129) front Sestertius - Hadrian (COS III S C; Fortuna) (128-129) back
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Sestertius - Hadrian COS III S C; Fortuna

 
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
128-129
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#255488
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Fortuna seated left, holding rudder and cornucopia.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
COS III
S C

Translation:
Consul Tertium. Senatus Consultum.
Consul for the third time. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Fortuna, the Roman goddess of luck and prosperity, on one side, and Emperor Hadrian on the other. This coin was minted during Hadrian's third consulship (COS III) in 128-129 AD, and it was made of Orichalcum, a copper-based alloy that was commonly used for Roman coins during that time period. The fact that it weighs 25g suggests that it was a standard circulation coin, which was used for everyday transactions.