Antoninus Pius Sestertius Æ RIC III # 855 A.D. 148 - 149 ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P

Antoninus Pius Sestertius – Aequitas and the Golden Age of Rome

This impressive bronze sestertius hails from the reign of Antoninus Pius, one of Rome’s most revered emperors. Struck in AD 148–149, it commemorates his fourth consulship and features the personification of Aequitas, the Roman virtue of fairness and equity—an ideal that defined his peaceful and prosperous rule.

On the obverse, Antoninus appears laureate and dignified, bearing the titles Pater Patriae and Tribunicia Potestate XII, reflecting his twelfth year of tribunician power. The reverse showcases Aequitas, holding scales and a cornucopia, symbols of justice and abundance. The “S C” inscription confirms its minting by decree of the Senate.

Scales (Libra): Symbolizing 'honest measure' in commerce and the fairness of his legal and administrative system.

Cornucopiae (Horn of Plenty): Representing the prosperity and abundance of the Roman economy.

Antoninus Pius governed during a golden age of internal stability, legal reform, and architectural achievement. His reign was so tranquil that the Roman historian Cassius Dio remarked it was “the most peaceful time in the history of the Empire.”

Grade: (By seller, using AI Analysis) -

Condition: The coin is a nice, circulated example, graded Very Fine (VF). It retains a desirable dark, mottled patina. The large size ensures the reverse figure of Aequitas is clearly visible, making this a strong example for any collection of Roman Imperial bronze.

Obverse: Strong portrait detail with visible laurel wreath and facial features. Legends partially legible.

Reverse: Aequitas figure well-defined; “S C” clear. Minor surface wear and patina consistent with age.

Strike: Centered and even.

Metal: Orichalcum (bronze alloy typical of sestertii)

Estimated Grade: VF (Very Fine) – strong detail with moderate wear.