Sestertius - Hadrian P M TR P COS III VIRT AVG S C; Virtus
| 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 | 124-125 |
| 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#255276 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Virtus standing left, resting foot on helmet, holding parazonium and spear.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
P M TR P COS III
VIRT AVG
S C
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate, Consul Tertium. Virtus Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
High priest, holder of tribunician power, consul for the third time. Courage of the emperor. 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. The exact composition of orichalcum 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 issuance of commemorative coins, and its durability and resistance to corrosion made it an ideal material for coinage. The fact that this coin was made of orichalcum suggests that it was a high-quality and valuable coin in its time.
