As - Antoninus Pius SECVRITAS PVBLICA S C

Émetteur Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Année 145-161
Type Standard circulation coin
Valeur As = 1⁄16 Denarius
Devise Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition Bronze
Poids 10.1 g
Diamètre 27 mm
Épaisseur
Forme Round (irregular)
Technique Hammered
Orientation
Graveur(s)
En circulation jusqu’à
Référence(s) RIC III#827B, OCRE#ric.3.ant.827B
Description de l’avers Bust of Antoninus Pius, laureate, draped, curiassed, right.
Écriture de l’avers Latin
Légende de l’avers ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COS IIII
(Translation: Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater Patriae, Tribunicia Potestate, Consul Quartum. Antoninus Pius, emperor (Augustus) father of the nation, holder of tribunician power, consul for the fourth time.)
Description du revers Oak-wreath.
Écriture du revers Latin
Légende du revers SECVRITAS PVBLICA S C
(Translation: Securitas Publica. Senatus Consultum. Safety of the public. Decree of the senate.)
Tranche
Atelier
Tirage ND (145-161) - -
ID Numisquare 7540297890
Informations supplémentaires

Historical Context: This As, issued between 145 and 161 AD, dates to the reign of Antoninus Pius, a period widely considered the zenith of the Pax Romana. As Hadrian's adopted son and Marcus Aurelius's predecessor, Antoninus Pius presided over an era of profound peace and stability. The reverse legend, "SECVRITAS PVBLICA," directly reflects this prevailing sense of public safety and the secure conditions enjoyed throughout the Roman Empire under his benevolent rule, a core tenet of his imperial ideology.

Artistry: While specific engravers are unknown, this coin exemplifies the high artistic standards of the High Imperial Roman period. The obverse typically features a finely rendered, laureate portrait of Antoninus Pius, blending idealized classical form with imperial features to convey gravitas. The reverse for "SECVRITAS PVBLICA" often depicts Securitas standing or seated, leaning on a column or holding a scepter, symbolizing state steadfastness and confidence. The execution of drapery and allegorical attributes showcases the era's refined sculptural tradition.

Technical/Grading: This bronze As, weighing 10.1 grams and measuring 27 millimeters, is typical for its denomination. Key high-points for grading include the emperor's hair, wreath, and facial features on the obverse, and the figure's drapery, attributes, and column details on the reverse. Bronze coinage of this period often exhibits variable strike quality; a premium example displays a full, well-centered strike with sharp details on high relief points. Common technical observations include planchet flaws, granular surfaces, or slight off-centering, characteristic of aes coinage production.

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