Struck during the early years of Marcus Aurelius’ reign, this silver denarius reflects a moment when imperial authority was being asserted through continuity and civic virtue rather than spectacle. Issued while Marcus still ruled in partnership with Lucius Verus, the coin emphasizes honor and public responsibility, themes that would remain central throughout his reign.
As Rome’s principal silver denomination, the denarius circulated widely across the empire. This example shows clear signs of having moved through ancient hands, a reminder that it once functioned as money before surviving into the present.
The History
This denarius dates to the period when Marcus Aurelius bore the title Caesar under Antoninus Pius, before assuming sole rule. The obverse portrait presents the future emperor bare-headed, a style associated with youth, continuity, and legitimacy rather than military authority. Such portraits emphasize succession and stability within the Antonine dynasty.
The reverse figure of Honos personifies honor and public esteem, virtues closely tied to civic service and moral conduct. Shown holding a branch and a cornucopia, Honos unites recognition with prosperity, suggesting that honor and abundance were understood as mutually reinforcing within Roman political thought. The inscription COS II records Marcus’ second consulship, grounding the imagery firmly in the formal offices of the Roman state.
This coin shows wear consistent with circulation in antiquity. Rather than diminishing its significance, this wear reflects its original role as working currency, handled, exchanged, and trusted within the Roman economy. Preserved today, it remains a tangible link to the lived experience of the early Roman Empire.
What’s Included
The authentic ancient Roman silver denarius shown
Carefully prepared and set as a finished pendant
A sterling silver chain
Optional 14k gold chain upgrade available at checkout
Protective packaging suitable for storage or gifting
Documentation describing the coin and its historical context
Coin Details
Roman Imperial
Marcus Aurelius, AD 161–180
Silver denarius
Rome mint
Obverse: Bare head of Marcus Aurelius, right. Inscription: AURELIUS CAESAR AUG PII F
Reverse: Honos standing left, togate, holding a branch and a cornucopia
Inscription: COS II
Marcus Aurelius Silver - Salus #2
Sterling Silver
$650.00
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FAQs
Are all coins authentic?
Yes! All coins are genuine, not replicas. Fakes are rare because good forgeries take too much effort for low-value coins, and bad ones are easy to spot.
Where are your coins bought?
Mostly from reputable ancient coin auctions in Europe and the USA, plus private collections.
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Can I send you my own coin to make a pendant?
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What if my pendant needs repair?
If your pendant ever needs repair or resizing, contact us - we’re happy to help keep your piece in top shape.
