© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Hadrian P M TR P COS III EXPED AVG S C
| 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 | 121-123 |
| 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#255195 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hadrian riding left, raising hand and holding spear.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
P M TR P COS III
EXPED AVG
S C
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate, Consul Tertium. Expeditio Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
High priest, holder of tribunician power, consul for the third time. Expedition 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 it's made of, orichalcum, is a rare and valuable alloy that was highly prized in ancient times. Orichalcum was made by combining gold, silver, and copper in a specific ratio, and it was said to have a golden sheen and a reddish tint. The use of orichalcum in coins was reserved for special occasions, such as the minting of commemorative coins for important events or the production of coins for foreign trade. The fact that this coin is made of orichalcum suggests that it was a high-status coin with a special significance, and its preservation in such good condition is a testament to its historical value.
