CVC & Collectables presents this bronze Dupondius of Antoninus Pius, struck at Rome during the final years of his reign, AD 160-161. Certified NGC Fine (F), the coin features an appealing reverse depicting Pietas, the Roman personification of duty, devotion, and family virtue. This type reflects the values Antoninus Pius sought to embody throughout one of the most peaceful and prosperous reigns in Roman history.
Coin Highlights:
- Issuer: Roman Empire
- Emperor: Antoninus Pius (AD 138-161)
- Date: AD 160-161
- Denomination: Dupondius
- Composition: Bronze
- Weight: 12.1 g
- Diameter: 27.5 mm
- Grade: NGC Fine (F)
- Reference: RIC III 1048
- Mint: Rome
Obverse:
- Radiate bust of Antoninus Pius facing right.
- Legend: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P XXIIII
- The radiate crown identifies the denomination as a dupondius.
Reverse:
- Pietas standing left, holding a globe and carrying a child, with additional children standing beside her.
- Legend: PIETATI AVG COS IIII S C
- The scene celebrates imperial piety, family devotion, and the moral virtues associated with the emperor.
Emperor History: Antoninus Pius (AD 138-161)
Born Titus Aurelius Fulvus Boionius Arrius Antoninus, Antoninus was adopted by Emperor Hadrian and designated heir in AD 138. Upon ascending the throne, he earned the title “Pius” for his loyalty and devotion to Hadrian. His twenty-three-year reign was among the most tranquil in Roman history, marked by responsible governance, judicial reforms, and financial stability. He was succeeded by Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus, ushering in the final chapter of the Pax Romana.
Collectibility:
Bronze dupondii of Antoninus Pius remain popular among collectors due to their large size, historical importance, and diverse reverse designs. The Pietas reverse is especially desirable for its depiction of Roman family values and imperial virtue. Certified examples offer an attractive entry into collecting the coinage of one of Rome’s most respected emperors. Find more alike here!
