Sestertius - Hadrian (// S C; Nemesis and Victory) (136) front Sestertius - Hadrian (// S C; Nemesis and Victory) (136) back
Sestertius - Hadrian (// S C; Nemesis and Victory) (136) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Hadrian // S C; Nemesis and Victory

136 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
136
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#256747
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Nemesis-Victory advancing right, holding branch and raising fold of drapery.

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 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 speaks to the advanced metallurgical knowledge and techniques of the ancient Romans.