I chose this coin for the story its two sides tell together. Marcus Aurelius is remembered today largely through his Meditations, but his coinage reveals the public image of an emperor responsible for governing and defending an empire. The small shield inscribed VIC PAR gives this reverse a particularly direct connection to a historical event. I like that the coin brings both aspects of Marcus’s life into view: the man whose thoughts we still read and the ruler whose portrait circulated throughout the Roman world.

This denarius was struck as Rome celebrated success in its war against Parthia, the great power to its east. The reverse makes its message explicit: Victory holds a palm branch beside a shield bearing VIC PAR, an abbreviated reference to victory over the Parthians. Marcus’s portrait is surrounded by imperial titles, including ARM and PARTH MAX, proclaiming victories associated with Armenia and Parthia.

For a modern wearer, the coin offers a tangible connection to the world of Marcus Aurelius. His private reflections have survived as the Meditations; coins such as this preserve the official language and imagery of his reign. Made to circulate as money, this small piece of silver also carried an announcement of imperial achievement.

Civilization: Ancient Rome
Emperor: Marcus Aurelius, AD 161–180
Date struck: AD 166
Mint: Rome
Denomination: Silver denarius
Reference: RIC III 163

Obverse: Laureate head of Marcus Aurelius facing right.
Inscription: M ANTONINVS AVG ARM PARTH MAX.

Reverse: Victory standing facing, head turned right, holding a palm branch and supporting a shield set on a palm tree. The shield is inscribed VIC / PAR.
Inscription: TR P XX IMP IIII COS III.

The coin itself is ancient silver. Your choice of metal applies to the handmade bezel setting.

The exact coin pictured will be hand set in a handmade bezel in your selected metal: brass, sterling silver, solid 14k gold, solid 18k gold, or solid 22k gold. Each setting is individually fitted to the coin, with an open back that leaves the reverse visible and no adhesives used. Please allow approximately three weeks for your pendant to be completed.

Your pendant includes a sterling silver chain, jewelry box, and certificate of authenticity with historical notes about your exact coin, backed by my lifetime authenticity guarantee. Gold chains are additional: a 14k chain upgrade is available at checkout, and an 18k chain can be arranged by request.

Every coin in this collection is individually selected for its historical significance, artistry, and character. Because each pendant is made from an authentic ancient coin, no two pieces are ever exactly alike.

More photographs and the complete numismatic description are available upon request. Each pendant is handcrafted to order and made using the exact coin shown in the listing.