Hadrian AR Denarius, Rome AD 121–123, Minerva Sacrificing, RIC 579–581

Hadrian, Denarius, silver, reign AD 117–138; Rome, AD 121–123, 3.23 g, 18 mm. Obverse: IMP CAESAR TRAIAN HADRIANVS AVG; laureate bust right. Reverse: P M TR P COS III; Minerva standing left, holding patera over altar and spear. Struck on a compact flan with mostly complete obverse legend; reverse slightly weak with surface deposits and porosity; dark cabinet tone. Cited as RIC II, Part 3 (second edition) Hadrian 579–581. This early Hadrianic denarius retains Trajan’s name in the obverse legend, signaling continuity with his predecessor during the consolidation of the new regime. The reverse names Hadrian’s offices—Pontifex Maximus, tribunician power, and his third consulship—and depicts Minerva performing a sacrifice, reflecting the emperor’s emphasis on traditional religious authority and civic order in the years surrounding his extensive early travels.