Roman Empire Hadrian, AD 117-138 AV Aureus NGC Ch VF

Description

Roman Empire Hadrian, AD 117-138 AV Aureus NGC Ch VF

Hadrian’s gold aurei represent a pinnacle of Roman numismatic artistry, showcasing the emperor’s sophisticated aesthetic sensibilities and propaganda mastery. These coins featured remarkably detailed portraits of Hadrian himself, often depicting him with his distinctive beard—a departure from the clean-shaven tradition of previous emperors—and frequently incorporated imagery celebrating his extensive travels throughout the empire. The radiant glow of this ancient gold coin offers remarkable clarity and showcases the artistry of the piece. Right now, the Roman Empire Hadrian AV Aureus Coin is available.

Coin Highlights:

• Arrives in a protective slab!
• Produced by the Roman Empire in the 2nd century AD!
• Released during the reign of Emperor Hadrian!
• 5/5 strike!
• 4/5 surface!
• Choice Very Fine!
• Contains actual gold content.
• Obverse features a portrait of Hadrian.
• Reverse includes the Genius Loci personification sacrificing at an altar.
• Please bear in mind that the exact appearance of each coin (shape, condition, wear, etc.) can vary from one piece to the next.

This Roman Empire Hadrian AV Aureus Gold Coin is in Choice Very Fine condition with rich, golden luster and even toning throughout. The coin features minimal handling marks and has grades of 5/5 and 4/5 for the strike and surface, respectively. The design is strongly struck and well-centered, while the coin shows above-average surface qualities for its age.

Hadrian’s reign (117-138 CE) marked a significant shift in imperial policy from expansion to consolidation, as he abandoned several of Trajan’s recent conquests and focused on strengthening existing borders through ambitious defensive works like Hadrian’s Wall in Britain. A passionate Hellenophile, he spent roughly half his reign traveling throughout the provinces, personally inspecting military installations, promoting urbanization, and patronizing architectural projects that transformed the empire’s landscape.

In the obverse of the Roman Empire Hadrian AV Aureus, you’ll find a right-profile bust of Hadrian with his trademark beard, while the reverse includes the image of the Genius as the figure makes a sacrifice at the altar. Hadrian’s administration was characterized by legal reforms, cultural patronage, and a vision of the empire as a commonwealth of cities rather than merely conquered territories, though his reign was also marked by the brutal suppression of the Bar Kokhba revolt in Judea.