Sestertius - Hadrian (// S C; Diana) (137-138) front Sestertius - Hadrian (// S C; Diana) (137-138) back
Sestertius - Hadrian (// S C; Diana) (137-138) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Sestertius - Hadrian // S C; Diana

 
Orichalcum 28.7 g 34 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Hadrian (Publius Aelius Hadrianus) (117-138)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
137-138
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Orichalcum
Weight
28.7 g
Diameter
34 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#256849
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Diana standing left, holding arrow and bow.

Script: Latin

Lettering: // S C

Translation:
Senatus Consultum.
Decree of the senate.

Comment

Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Diana on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Hadrian. Diana was revered as a symbol of fertility, hunting, and the natural world, and her image was often used to promote the idea of abundance and prosperity. The inclusion of Diana on this coin may have been intended to convey the idea of the Roman Empire's wealth and prosperity under Hadrian's rule.