© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Hadrian RESTITVTORI ARABIAE S C; Arabia
| 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 |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#256307 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hadrian standing right, holding scroll and raising kneeling Arabia, holding bundle of cinnamon or incense sticks; between them, camel.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
RESTITVTORI ARABIAE
S C
Translation:
Restitutori Arabiae. Senatus Consultum.
To the restorer of Arabia. 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-value transactions, making this coin particularly significant.
