Antoninus Pius, 138-161, Denarius

Antoninus Pius, Denarius, Silver, Reign 138-161 AD, Minted in Rome. Weight: 3.08g, Diameter: 18mm. The obverse features the laureate head of Antoninus Pius facing right, with the legend ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P XII encircling the portrait. The reverse depicts Pax standing left, holding a branch and a cornucopia, accompanied by the inscription COS IIII. The strike is well-centered with complete legends on both sides. The surfaces exhibit slight wear consistent with its age, without significant porosity or damage. Referenced in RIC III Antoninus Pius 181.

Antoninus Pius, one of the 'Five Good Emperors,' presided over a period of relative peace and prosperity in the Roman Empire from 138 to 161 AD. His reign is marked by an emphasis on economy and infrastructure improvements, alongside the promotion of legal reform. The denarius serves as a testament to his stable administration and reflects the prosperity enjoyed during his tenure. The coinage featuring his image and the iconography of Pax symbolizes the peace and stability that characterized his rule.