Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius TR POT XIX IMP II COS III S C, Felicitas
| Uitgever | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Jaar | 164-165 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Waarde | 1 Sestertius = 1/4 Denarius |
| Valuta | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Samenstelling | Bronze |
| Gewicht | 26.4 g |
| Diameter | 32 mm |
| Dikte | |
| Vorm | Round (irregular) |
| Techniek | Hammered |
| Oriëntatie | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| In omloop tot | |
| Referentie(s) | RIC III#901, OCRE#ric.3.m_aur.901 |
| Beschrijving voorzijde | Head of Marcus Aurelius, laureate, right. |
|---|---|
| Schrift voorzijde | Latin |
| Opschrift voorzijde |
M AVREL ANTONINVS AVG ARMENIACVS P M (Translation: Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus, Armeniacus, Pontifex Maximus. Marcus Aurelius Antoninus emperor (Augustus), conqueror of the Armenians, high priest.) |
| Beschrijving keerzijde | Felicitas, draped, standing left, holding winged caduceus in right hand and cornucopiae at shoulder in left hand; foot set on globe. |
| Schrift keerzijde | Latin |
| Opschrift keerzijde |
TR POT XIX IMP II COS III S C (Translation: Tribunicia Potestate Undevicesima, Imperator Secundum, Consul Tertium. Senatus Consultum. Holder of tribunician power for the 19th time, supreme commander (Imperator) for the second time, consul for the third time. Decree of the senate.) |
| Rand | |
| Muntplaats | |
| Oplage |
ND (164-165) - - |
| Numisquare-ID | 1448863730 |
| Aanvullende informatie |
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Historical Context: This Sestertius, dated to 164-165 AD, originates from the reign of Marcus Aurelius, a pivotal period marked by his co-rule with Lucius Verus and the ongoing Parthian War. The titulature TR POT XIX IMP II COS III precisely dates the issue, reflecting his nineteenth tribunician power, second imperial acclamation (likely for early successes against Parthia), and third consulship. The reverse type, Felicitas, personifying good fortune and success, was a potent message during wartime, symbolizing imperial prosperity and the emperor's role as its guarantor for the Roman people.
Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, this Sestertius exemplifies the high imperial Roman stylistic school. The obverse features a mature, laureate, and often idealized portrait of Marcus Aurelius, showcasing the characteristic beard and thoughtful expression associated with his philosophical persona. The reverse depicts Felicitas standing left, gracefully holding her traditional attributes: a caduceus, symbolizing peace and prosperity, and a cornucopiae, representing abundance. The overall design conveys stability and divine favor, typical of official imperial iconography.
Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, this Sestertius weighs 26.4 grams with a 32 mm diameter, consistent with the denomination. Key high-points for grading include the emperor's hair, brow, and the wreath details on the obverse, and on the reverse, Felicitas's head, hands, and the intricate details of the caduceus and cornucopiae. The technical strike quality varies, but well-centered examples with minimal planchet flaws and strong relief on both sides are highly prized. The prominent 'S C' (Senatus Consulto) confirms its senatorial authorization.