Hadrian, 117–138 AD

Emperor: Hadrian, 117–138 AD

•  Denomination: AR Denarius

•  Mint: Rome, struck ca. 119–122 AD

•  Obverse: IMP CAESAR TRAIAN HADRIANVS AVG, laureate head right, slight drapery on far shoulder

•  Reverse: P M TR P COS III, Salus seated left on throne, holding patera over altar, left hand at side

Reference: RIC II.3 Hadrian 137 or RSC 1097. The P M TR P COS III legend puts this early in his reign, after he took the title Pontifex Maximus.

Salus was the goddess of safety and well-being — this type was issued to promote the health and stability of the emperor and state.