HADRIAN (117-138). Denarius. Rome.

Obv: HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P.
Bare-headed and draped bust right.
Rev: AFRICA.
Africa with elephant headdress, reclining left, leaning on rock, holding scorpion and cornucopia; basket of fruit in front of her.

RIC² 1500.

Ex Classical Numismatic Group 85 (2010), lot 902. The reign of Hadrian was marked by the travels he embarked on between 121 and 132, a way of learning about and expressing respect for every corner of the empire. Indeed, he visited numerous regions and garrisons, reserving special interest for the armies and the discipline of the soldiers. He treated the provinces not as lands to be exploited but to be enriched with cities, monuments and defenses on the frontiers, improving the road system and administration. In 123 from Spain he traveled to Africa, having to quell an insurrection that arose in Mauretania, a region that still tenaciously resisted Roman civilization. Hadrian consolidated the military defense here, started the construction of a 'vallum,' and then continued his sea travel to Egypt.

Condition: Near extremely fine.

Weight: 3.28 g.
Diameter: 18 mm.