Antoninus Pius, 138-161, Tetradrachm

Antoninus Pius, Tetradrachm, Bimetallic, Reign of Antoninus Pius (138-161 AD), Minted in Alexandria, Regnal Year 2. Weight: 12.55 g, Diameter: 25 mm. The obverse features a laureate head of Antoninus Pius facing right, accompanied by the inscribed title "AVT K T AIΛ AΔP ANTωNINOC ЄV CЄB," indicating his official titles and reverence. On the reverse, the legend "ЄTOVC B" designates the second year of his reign, with a depiction of the deity Zeus seated, holding a scepter. The strike is generally well-centered, detailed on both obverse and reverse, with minor variances typical of provincial minting from Alexandria. Referenced in RPC IV.4, 13407 (temporary).

This tetradrachm, issued in Alexandria, Egypt, during the rule of Antoninus Pius, reflects the cultural and political influences of Roman leadership over Egypt. Alexandria was a prominent city renowned for its learning and commerce. Such coins not only facilitated trade but also reinforced the emperor’s presence and divine status within the provinces. Roman Provincial coins like this one, minted in a city with a long-standing Hellenistic heritage, illustrate the integration of Roman authority with local traditions, evident in the use of Greek legends alongside Roman iconography.