CVC & Collectables presents this ancient Roman Bronze Sestertius of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, struck at the Rome Mint in AD 170–171, features the historically significant PRIMI DECENNALES reverse commemorating the emperor’s first decade of imperial rule. Cataloged as RIC III 1006, this large bronze coin displays a laureate portrait of Marcus Aurelius and a ceremonial oak wreath enclosing a commemorative inscription. Certified NGC Fine (F), it represents an important issue from the reign of Rome’s celebrated philosopher-emperor.
Coin Highlights
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Empire: Roman Empire
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Emperor: Marcus Aurelius
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Date: AD 170–171
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Denomination: Sestertius
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Composition: Bronze (Æ)
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Mint: Rome
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Reference: RIC III 1006
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Additional Reference: OCRE ric.3.m_aur.1006
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Obverse Legend: IMP M ANTONINVS AVG TR P XXV
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Obverse: Laureate head of Marcus Aurelius facing right
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Reverse Legend: PRIMI DECENNALES COS III S C
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Reverse: Oak wreath enclosing a five-line commemorative inscription
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Grade: NGC Fine (F)
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Certification: NGC Ancients
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Certification Number: 8560333-021
Design & Devices
Obverse: Features the laureate head of Emperor Marcus Aurelius facing right, surrounded by the Latin inscription IMP M ANTONINVS AVG TR P XXV. His distinctive beard, curled hair, and imperial portrait remain recognizable beneath the coin’s aged bronze patina.
Reverse: Displays an oak wreath enclosing the inscription:
PRIMI / DECEN / NALES / COS III / S C
The inscription commemorates the emperor’s first ten years of rule. The abbreviation COS III identifies his third consulship, while S C stands for Senatus Consultum, indicating issuance under the authority of the Roman Senate.
The reverse is especially notable for its inscription-centered design, emphasizing an imperial milestone rather than a traditional standing deity or allegorical figure.
Historical Significance
The PRIMI DECENNALES issue celebrates the first decade of Marcus Aurelius’s reign, which began in AD 161. Roman emperors frequently commemorated important anniversaries of their rule through public ceremonies, vows, and special coinage.
The oak wreath, traditionally associated with honor and civic distinction, provides a fitting frame for the anniversary inscription.
During this period, the Roman Empire faced military pressure along its frontiers and the consequences of the Antonine Plague. The commemorative coinage reinforced the continuity and legitimacy of imperial authority during a challenging period.
Emperor History – Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius (AD 161–180) was one of Rome’s Five Good Emperors and is remembered for his Stoic philosophy, military leadership, and commitment to public duty.
He initially ruled alongside Lucius Verus until AD 169. His reign was marked by conflicts with Germanic tribes along the Danube frontier, military campaigns against the Parthian Empire, and the devastating Antonine Plague.
Beyond his political achievements, Marcus Aurelius authored Meditations, a collection of philosophical reflections on virtue, discipline, and the responsibilities of leadership.
Collectibility
This RIC 1006 Sestertius is particularly collectible for its commemorative PRIMI DECENNALES reverse, directly celebrating the first decade of Marcus Aurelius’s reign.
Certified NGC Fine, this example retains recognizable portrait details and a legible commemorative reverse inscription. Its substantial bronze format, historical significance, and attractive aged patina make it a desirable addition to a collection of Roman imperial coinage.
