| Savoca Numismatik GmbH & Co. KG > Online Auction 203 | Silver | Auction date: 24 March 2024 |
| Lot number: 485 Price realized: 350 EUR (Approx. 380 USD) Note: Prices do not include buyer's fees. | Show similar lots on CoinArchives Find similar lots in upcoming auctions on  |
| Lot description: Hadrian AD 117-138. Struck 132 - 134 AD. Rome As Æ 28 mm, 9,31 g HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS, draped bust left / FELICITATI AVG/ COS III P P/ S - C, War galley with helmsman and rowers moving right. Very Fine RIC 1325; Strack 838. This coin, a Dupondius or As from the reign of Hadrian (117-138 AD), represents a fascinating period in the Roman Empire's history, encapsulating the emperor's personal attributes, his reign's themes, and the broader economic and cultural contexts of the time. Minted in Rome between 132 and 134 AD, this coin is struck from bronze, typical for the lower denomination currencies of the Roman Empire, which facilitated daily transactions among its citizens. The size, 28mm in diameter, and weight, 9.31 grams, make it a substantial piece, indicative of its value and utility in the ancient economy. The obverse of the coin bears the inscription "HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS," identifying the emperor and his title. The left-facing draped bust of Hadrian is noteworthy, as it is identified as a rare variant; Roman imperial coins typically featured the emperor's portrait facing right. The left-facing bust might have been a stylistic choice or meant to commemorate a particular event or aspect of Hadrian's rule, though the specific reason remains a subject of numismatic speculation. This deviation from the norm highlights the individuality of coin issues and the personal touch emperors could imprint on the empire's currency. On the reverse, the coin features a detailed scene of a war galley under sail, complete with a steuerman (helmsman) and rowers. The inscription "FELICITATI AVG COS III P P S - C" surrounds the image. This scene symbolizes Roman naval power and might be reflective of Hadrian's travels across the Roman Empire, his interest in the military, or the general importance of naval power in securing and maintaining the empire's extensive borders. The terms "COS III" denote Hadrian's third consulship, a significant honor and a mark of his continued leadership and service to the state. The depiction of Felicitas (the personification of luck and prosperity in Roman religion) alongside the naval imagery may imply the prosperity and happiness of the Roman state under Hadrian's rule. "FELICITATI AVG" refers to the emperor's happiness or fortune, potentially celebrating the peace and stability of his reign, known as the Pax Romana. The presence of "S - C" (Senatus Consulto) signifies that this coin was issued by decree of the Roman Senate, affirming its official status and linking the emperor's authority with the approval of Rome's governing bodies. The dark green patina that the coin has acquired over the centuries adds to its historical aura, reflecting the passage of time and the coin's journey from ancient Roman hands to the present day. The condition of the coin, described as "Very Fine", indicates that while it has seen wear, it remains a well-preserved piece, offering valuable insights into the artistry and craftsmanship of Roman numismatists. In conclusion, this coin is not merely a piece of ancient currency but a tangible link to Hadrian's reign, reflecting his persona, his policies, and the era's artistic and cultural practices. It stands as a testament to the complexity and richness of Roman imperial history, encapsulated in a small but significant artifact. Starting price: 350 EUR |  |
