Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius TR POT XIX IMP II COS III S C, Felicitas

Đơn vị phát hành Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Năm 164-165
Loại Standard circulation coin
Mệnh giá 1 Sestertius = 1/4 Denarius
Tiền tệ Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Chất liệu Bronze
Trọng lượng 26.4 g
Đường kính 32 mm
Độ dày
Hình dạng Round (irregular)
Kỹ thuật Hammered
Hướng
Nghệ nhân khắc
Lưu hành đến
Tài liệu tham khảo RIC III#901, OCRE#ric.3.m_aur.901
Mô tả mặt trước Head of Marcus Aurelius, laureate, right.
Chữ viết mặt trước Latin
Chữ khắc mặt trước 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.)
Mô tả mặt sau Felicitas, draped, standing left, holding winged caduceus in right hand and cornucopiae at shoulder in left hand; foot set on globe.
Chữ viết mặt sau Latin
Chữ khắc mặt sau 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.)
Cạnh
Xưởng đúc
Số lượng đúc ND (164-165) - -
ID Numisquare 1448863730
Thông tin bổ sung

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.

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