Roman Empire – Marcus Aurelius as Caesar (AD 139–161)
Silver Denarius Pendant | Rome Mint (AD 147–148)
Authentic Roman Imperial Coin
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Coin Details
•Empire: Roman Empire
•Authority: Marcus Aurelius (as Caesar, under Antoninus Pius)
•Mint: Rome
•Date: AD 147–148
•Denomination: Denarius
•Material: Silver
•Weight: 3.78 g
•Diameter: 18 mm
•Condition: Close to Extremely Fine
•References: BMC 636 · Cohen 608 · RIC 438b
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Description
This authentic Roman silver denarius was struck in Rome during the early public career of Marcus Aurelius, while he still held the title of Caesar under the reign of his adoptive father, Emperor Antoninus Pius. Coins from this period are especially desirable, as they capture the future philosopher-emperor before his accession to the imperial throne.
Obverse:
Bare-headed portrait of Marcus Aurelius facing right.
Legend: AVRELIVS CAESAR AVG III C (sic).
The youthful yet composed portrait reflects Roman ideals of restraint, intellect, and moral authority—traits that would later define his reign.
Reverse:
Legend: TR POT II COS II.
Minerva, helmeted goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare, stands facing forward with head turned right, holding a spear and resting her left hand on a shield. The imagery emphasizes wisdom, discipline, and preparedness, virtues deeply associated with Marcus Aurelius’ philosophical legacy.
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Historical Significance
Marcus Aurelius would later become one of Rome’s most revered emperors and thinkers, remembered for his Stoic masterpiece Meditations. As Caesar, his coinage already conveyed themes of virtue, wisdom, and moral leadership, preparing the Roman world for his future rule.
Denarii from this early phase offer a rare glimpse into the formation of an emperor whose influence extended far beyond politics and warfare.
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Mounting & Presentation
This authentic Roman silver denarius is set as a pendant in a 925 sterling silver frame, plated with 14k gold.
The mount is custom-designed to secure and protect the ancient coin while enhancing its visual presence, transforming a museum-grade artifact into an elegant and wearable piece of history.
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Included with Your Purchase
✔️ Authentic Roman silver denarius of Marcus Aurelius (as Caesar)
✔️ 925 sterling silver frame, 14k gold plated
✔️ Certificate of Authenticity & Provenance, issued by Numisnation
✔️ Genuine leather cord necklace (random color)
✔️ Handcrafted envelope made from traditional Amalfi paper, produced using real cotton fibers, following medieval techniques
✔️ Certificate envelope closed and sealed with wax, bearing the official Numisnation logo
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Why This Piece Matters
•Early coin of Marcus Aurelius before becoming emperor
•Strong philosophical and symbolic imagery
•High-quality Roman silver with excellent preservation
•Tangible connection to one of history’s greatest thinker-rulers
•Each piece is unique and historically irreplaceable
This pendant is not merely jewelry—it is a wearable testament to Roman wisdom, virtue, and imperial legacy.