Sestertius - Hadrian (FELICITATI AVG COS III P P S C) (129-130) front Sestertius - Hadrian (FELICITATI AVG COS III P P S C) (129-130) back
no image

Sestertius - Hadrian FELICITATI AVG COS III P P S C

 
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#255821
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Ship, right.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
FELICITATI AVG
COS III P P
S C

Translation:
Felicitati Augusti, Consul Tertium, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum.
To the good fortune of the emperor (Augustus), consul for the third time, father of the nation. 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 it's made of, Orichalcum, is a fictional metal that was believed to exist in ancient times but has never been found in reality. Despite this, the Roman Empire still used it as a material for some of their coins, showcasing the importance of aesthetics and symbolism in their currency.