Sestertius - Hadrian (FORTVNA AVGS C; Fortuna) (137-138) front Sestertius - Hadrian (FORTVNA AVGS C; Fortuna) (137-138) back
Sestertius - Hadrian (FORTVNA AVGS C; Fortuna) (137-138) photo
© Roma Numismatics Limited

Sestertius - Hadrian FORTVNA AVGS 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
137-138
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#256861
Rarity index
83%

Reverse

Fortuna standing left, holding rudder sometimes set on globe and cornucopia.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
FORTVNA AVG
S C

Translation:
Fortuna Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
Good fortune of the emperor. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Sestertius coin features an image of Fortuna, the Roman goddess of luck and prosperity, on one side, and Emperor Hadrian on the other. The coin was minted during Hadrian's reign (117-138 AD) and was used as a standard circulation coin throughout the Roman Empire. The use of Orichalcum, a copper-zinc alloy, was a common practice during this time period, as it was a durable and cost-effective material for coin production. It's worth noting that the Sestertius coin was an important denomination in ancient Rome, equivalent to one-fourth of a silver denarius, and was widely used for everyday transactions. The fact that this particular coin features both Fortuna and Hadrian makes it a unique and interesting artifact from ancient Roman history.