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Denarius - Hadrian COS III
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 128-129 |
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| Value | 1 Denarius |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Reverse description | Central device comprising an eight-pointed star positioned within the concave curve of a upward-opening crescent moon, both rendered in high relief against a plain field. The crescent's horns point upward, cradling the star, a motif associated with celestial imagery and possibly referencing Hadrian's philhellenic interests or divine aspirations. The abbreviated Latin legend COS III is distributed in the field to either side of the central device, referencing Hadrian's third consulship held from AD 119 onward. A beaded border frames the entire reverse design. The composition is strikingly minimal, lending the celestial motif strong visual impact. |
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| Reverse lettering | COS III (Translation: Consul Tertium. Consul for the third time.) |
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| Additional information |
The COS III dating places this issue firmly after Hadrian's third consulship commenced in 119 AD, though coins bearing that titulature continued well into the following decade. The years 128–129 coincide with Hadrian's extensive eastern tour, during which he visited Athens, was initiated into the Eleusinian Mysteries, and formally dedicated the Olympieion — a temple nearly 700 years in the making. Roman mints continued striking in his name throughout these travels, and the output was substantial enough that RIC II.3 subdivides the COS III material across dozens of distinct types.