Sestertius - Hadrian (PIETAS AVGVSTI S C; Pietas) (121) front Sestertius - Hadrian (PIETAS AVGVSTI S C; Pietas) (121) back
Sestertius - Hadrian (PIETAS AVGVSTI S C; Pietas) (121) photo
© Hess Divo

Sestertius - Hadrian PIETAS AVGVSTI S C; Pietas

121 year
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
Year
121
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#255033
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Pietas, veiled, standing right before altar, raising one hand and holding box of incense in the other hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
PIETAS AVGVSTI
S C

Translation:
Pietas Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
Piety 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 and high-status individuals, making this coin a unique and valuable artifact from the Roman Empire.