Sestertius - Hadrian RESTITVTORI AFRICAE S C; Africa
| 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 | 130-133 |
| 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 |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#256300 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hadrian standing left, holding scroll and raising kneeling Africa, wearing elephant scalp, holding corn ears; between them, corn growing.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
RESTITVTORI AFRICAE
S C
Unabridged legend: Restitutori Africae. Senatus Consultum.
Translation: To the restorer of Africa. 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. Its composition is unknown, but it is believed to be a mixture of gold, silver, and other metals. The use of orichalcum in this coin suggests that it was a high-value coin, possibly used for special purposes or as a symbol of wealth and power.