Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius (HILARITAS S C; Hilaritas) (140-144) front Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius (HILARITAS S C; Hilaritas) (140-144) back
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Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius HILARITAS S C; Hilaritas

 
Bronze - -
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Antoninus Pius (Titus Aelius Hadrianus Antoninus Pius) (138-161)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
140-144
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#261741
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Hilaritas, standing left, holding palm and cornucopiae.

Script: Latin

Lettering: HILARITAS S C

Translation:
Hilaritas. Senatus Consultum.
Joy. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Sestertius coin , which features Marcus Aurelius and the goddess Hilaritas, was part of a series of coins issued during his reign that aimed to promote the ideals of Stoicism, which was a philosophy that emphasized reason, self-control, and inner strength. The image of Hilaritas on the coin represents the idea of "cheerfulness" or "good humor," which was a key aspect of Stoic philosophy. This coin is a unique example of how ancient Roman coins were used not only as a means of currency but also as a way to promote philosophical and cultural ideals.