Hadrian | AE Sestertius | Rome Mint (117–138 AD)
Weight: 23.50 g  Material: Bronze (Æ)  Diameter: ~32-34 mm
Mint: Rome  Condition: Fine to Very Fine (subject to confirmation from physical inspection)
⸻
Obverse:
HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS
Laureate bust of Emperor Hadrian facing right, with subtle drapery visible over the far shoulder. His portrait exhibits classical realism, reflecting strength, dignity, and imperial calm — a hallmark of 2nd-century Roman numismatic art.
Reverse:
COS III / S - C
Depiction of Aequitas, the Roman personification of fairness and economic justice, standing left. She holds a sceptre in one hand and a set of scales in the other — classic emblems of moral and social balance under Roman governance. The letters “S - C” (Senatus Consulto) indicate the coin was struck by decree of the Roman Senate.
⸻
🏛 Historical Context
Publius Aelius Hadrianus, known simply as Hadrian, ruled the Roman Empire from 117 to 138 AD. He is best remembered as a philosophical emperor, military consolidator, and cultural reformer. Hadrian was deeply invested in architecture (Hadrian’s Wall in Britain is one example), administration, and improving the lives of his subjects.
This sestertius was struck during his third consulship (COS III), around the midpoint of his reign, and reflects his commitment to justice and stability within the empire.
The appearance of Aequitas on the reverse symbolizes Hadrian’s focus on fairness in economic policy, fiscal balance, and social equity — themes that remain relevant to this day.
⸻
⭐ Why Collect This Coin?
•Large, impressive bronze piece (~23.5 g) from the High Roman Empire
•Strong imperial portrait with symbolic reverse design
•Excellent representation of Hadrian’s reign and Roman virtue
•A collectible artefact of historical, philosophical, and numismatic value
⸻
✅ Included with Your Purchase:
•📜 Certificate of Authenticity & Provenance
•🧰 Archival coin flip or protective display capsule
•🇨🇦 Ships securely from Canada with tracking