Sestertius of Marcus Aurelius as Caesar under Antoninus Pius

Sestertius of Marcus Aurelius as Caesar under Antoninus Pius, struck 152-153 CE. Weight c. 25.80 g; diameter 32 mm. Obverse legend M AVRELIVS CAESAR AVG PII FIL shows a bare-headed, draped bust right. Reverse legend TR POT VIII COS II surrounds Minerva standing left holding owl on right hand and spear in left, shield at foot; S C in exergue. The coin is normally produced in high-relief bronze with broad flan and smooth edges; surviving specimens display olive to dark brown patination with possible lighter earthen highlights. Struck on a central axis with moderate die-wear. Reference: RIC III Antoninus Pius 1314.

Issued during Marcus Aurelius' second tribunician year while still heir to Antoninus Pius, the sestertius promotes his public image through Minerva, goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare, foreshadowing the philosopher-emperor's later military responsibilities. The large bronze denomination circulated widely in Italy and the western provinces, reinforcing dynastic continuity and preparing opinion for the eventual accession of Marcus Aurelius in 161.