Divus Antoninus Pius, AR Denarius, Rome, after AD 161

Divus Antoninus Pius, AR Denarius, Rome, after AD 161

Struck under Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus

Obverse: DIVVS ANTONINVS

Bare head of Antoninus Pius right, with slight drapery on left shoulder

Reverse: CONSECRATIO

Funeral pyre of four tiers, decorated with garlands and hangings, surmounted by facing quadriga

References: RIC III 438 (Marcus Aurelius); BMC 61; RSC 164a; Cohen 164

Weight: 3.00 g

Diameter: ∼17-18 mm

Die axis: Coin alignment ↑↓

Condition: Very Fine / Good Very Fine, well-centered. Good portrait detail. Reverse shows full pyre architecture with garlands visible. Cabinet tone, minor surface marks consistent with age. Light weight but within acceptable range for issue.

Notes: Posthumous consecration issue struck after Antoninus Pius died in AD 161. The rogus reverse depicts the imperial funeral pyre used during deification ceremonies, symbolizing the emperor’s ascent to godhood.