Sestertius - Hadrian (VIRTVTI AVGVSTI) (130-138) front Sestertius - Hadrian (VIRTVTI AVGVSTI) (130-138) back
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Sestertius - Hadrian VIRTVTI AVGVSTI

 
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
Years
130-138
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#257239
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Hadrian riding right, holding spear and hunting lion running right.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VIRTVTI AVGVSTI

Translation:
Virtuti Augusti.
To the courage of the emperor.

Comment

Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that the metal it's made of, orichalcum, is a mysterious and rare metal that was highly valued in ancient times. It's believed to be a brass-like alloy, but its exact composition is unknown, and it's said to have been used in the production of coins and other valuable items during the Roman Empire.