Dupondius - Antoninus Pius TR POT COS II PAX S C, Pax
| Emittent | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Jahr | 139 |
| Typ | Standard circulation coin |
| Nennwert | 1 Dupondius = 1/8 Denarius |
| Währung | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Material | Bronze |
| Gewicht | 12.4 g |
| Durchmesser | 27 mm |
| Dicke | |
| Form | Round (irregular) |
| Prägetechnik | Hammered |
| Ausrichtung | |
| Stempelschneider | |
| Im Umlauf bis | |
| Referenz(en) | RIC III#554, OCRE#ric.3.ant.554 |
| Aversbeschreibung | Head of Antoninus Pius, radiate, right. |
|---|---|
| Aversschrift | Latin |
| Averslegende |
ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P (Translation: Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater Patriae. Antoninus Pius, emperor (Augustus) father of the nation.) |
| Reversbeschreibung | Pax, draped, standing left, holding branch in extended right hand and cornucopiae in left. |
| Reversschrift | Latin |
| Reverslegende |
TR POT COS II PAX S C (Translation: Tribunicia Potestate, Consul Secundum. Pax. Senatus Consultum. Holder of tribunician power, consul for the second time. Peace. Decree of the senate.) |
| Rand | |
| Prägestätte | |
| Auflage |
ND (139) - - |
| Numisquare-ID | 1505821890 |
| Zusätzliche Informationen |
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Historical Context: This bronze dupondius, issued in 139 AD, hails from the reign of Antoninus Pius (138-161 AD), a period often celebrated as a zenith of Roman stability and prosperity. Antoninus, known for his administrative acumen and piety, eschewed military expansion in favor of internal consolidation. The obverse legend "TR POT COS II" precisely dates the coin to his second consulship and annual renewal of tribunician power, marking the early years of his impactful, largely peaceful rule.
Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, this coin exemplifies the refined High Imperial Roman artistic tradition. The obverse features a dignified, idealized portrait of Antoninus Pius, reflecting the classical aesthetic prevalent during his era. On the reverse, the personification of Pax (Peace) is rendered with graceful proportions, typically holding an olive branch and cornucopia, symbolizing the peace and abundance fostered under the emperor's benevolent governance. The "PAX S C" legend reinforces this central theme.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial 27mm bronze flan, this dupondius typically exhibits a robust strike. Key high-points for evaluation include the emperor's hair and laurel wreath on the obverse, and Pax's facial features, drapery folds, and attributes (olive branch, cornucopia) on the reverse. A well-centered strike, full legends, and sharp definition on these areas are indicative of superior technical quality, crucial for appreciating the intricate details inherent in this denomination.