© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Hadrian NILVS S C; Nilus
| 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 | 130-133 |
| 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#256180 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Nilus reclining right, holding reed and cornucopia; to right, hippopotamus; below, crocodile in water.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
NILVS
S C
Translation:
Nilus. Senatus Consultum.
Nile. 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. Its composition 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 reign of Emperor Hadrian, and its durability and resistance to corrosion made it an ideal material for coinage.
