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Hadrian
Hadrian, 117-138. Denarius (Silver, 18 mm, 3.62 g, 6 h), Rome, circa 121. IMP CAESAR TRAIAN HADRIANVS AVG Laureate and draped bust of Hadrian to right. Rev. P M TR P COS III / LIB - PVB Libertas standing front, head to left, holding pileus in her right hand and long scepter in her left. BMC 289. Cohen 907. RIC 373. Ex. Mark and Lottie Salton Collection, Künker 377, lot 5814, 10/20/2022. Ex. Leu Fixed Price List 1, 01/12/2023.
Hadrian, born in 76 CE, was a Roman emperor known for his ambitious projects, intellectual pursuits, and influential policies. Ruling from 117 to 138 CE, he is remembered for consolidating and stabilizing the vast Roman Empire, prioritizing internal development and defense over expansion. His reign marked a significant shift from the aggressive conquests of his predecessors to a period of architectural advancement, legal reform, and cultural patronage.
One of Hadrian’s most iconic achievements was the construction of Hadrian’s Wall, a defensive fortification in northern Britain. Stretching approximately 73 miles, it was designed to protect the Roman province from local tribes and solidify the empire's borders. This monumental structure symbolized his commitment to consolidating the empire's vast territories rather than extending them. Hadrian’s Wall showcased advanced engineering skills and remains a testament to Roman architecture and military strategy.
Beyond his focus on defense, Hadrian was a dedicated patron of the arts and an intellectual. He admired Greek culture and philosophy, earning him the title “Graeculus,” or “Little Greek.” He established Athens as a cultural center and initiated building projects such as the Temple of Olympian Zeus, enhancing the city’s prestige. His fascination with architecture extended to Rome, where he oversaw the construction of the Pantheon, a marvel of ancient engineering that influenced Western architecture for centuries.
Hadrian’s leadership style also involved reforms in the Roman legal and administrative systems. He implemented changes to improve the welfare of soldiers and standardized legal codes, enhancing the stability and fairness of governance across the empire. His travels across the empire, rare for Roman emperors, allowed him to connect with diverse cultures within his rule, promoting a sense of unity and cohesion.
Hadrian’s legacy is one of balance and consolidation. His policies helped stabilize the Roman Empire, and his architectural contributions and cultural patronage continue to resonate today, underscoring his impact on both Roman history and Western civilization.
Coinage of Hadrian is probably the most common of all the Roman emperors. So the challenge is in selecting an example that stands out among so many nice coins. This denarius is exquisitely struck in high relief, with beaming luster and attractive toning. Unlike most Roman coins, the reverse is almost as nice as the obverse: note how the Libertas' leg peeks out from her lifted robe in a statuesque fashion.