Sestertius - Hadrian PONT MAX TR POT COS II CONCORDIA S C; Concordia and Spes
117 year| 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 |
| 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 |
| Numista | N#254721 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Concordia seated left on throne, holding patera and resting on figure of Spes; cornucopia under throne.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
PONT MAX TR POT COS II
CONCORDIA
S C
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate, Consul Secundum. Concordia. Senatus Consultum.
High priest, holder of tribunician power, consul for the second time. Harmony. 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.
