Sestertius - Hadrian (PONT MAX TR POT COS FORT RED SC; Fortuna) (117) front Sestertius - Hadrian (PONT MAX TR POT COS FORT RED SC; Fortuna) (117) back
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Sestertius - Hadrian PONT MAX TR POT COS FORT RED SC; Fortuna

117 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
117
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#254645
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Fortuna seated left, holding rudder and cornucopia.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
PONT MAX TR POT COS
FORT RED
SC

Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate, Consul. Fortuna Redux. Senatus Consultum.
High priest, holder of tribunician power, consul. Fortune that brings back (the emperor in safety). 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 metal that was highly valued in ancient times. It is believed to be a brass-like alloy, but its exact composition is unknown, and it is no longer used today. The use of orichalcum in the production of this coin reflects the high level of craftsmanship and technical skill of the Roman Empire's minting process during the reign of Emperor Hadrian.