Struck in AD 161 after the death of Antoninus Pius, this Roman silver denarius commemorates the emperor’s consecration among the gods. Issued under Marcus Aurelius, the coin reflects the Roman tradition of honoring great rulers through deification and public ceremony.
Set in sterling silver, the ancient coin continues its journey nearly two thousand years after it first circulated in the Roman world. Though worn from centuries of history, the design still conveys the powerful symbolism of Rome’s imperial rituals.
The History
Antoninus Pius ruled the Roman Empire from AD 138 to 161 and presided over one of the most peaceful and prosperous periods in Roman history. Unlike many emperors, he spent his reign largely in Italy rather than campaigning abroad, focusing instead on administration, law, and stability. His government was marked by moderation and continuity, and later historians often described his rule as the quiet height of the Roman imperial system.
When Antoninus Pius died in AD 161, the Senate granted him divine honors, declaring him Divus Antoninus. This act of consecration elevated the deceased emperor to the status of a god within the Roman state religion. Coins such as this one were struck to commemorate that transformation and to communicate the message throughout the empire.
The reverse shows the monumental structure erected during the imperial funeral ceremonies. These elaborate wooden towers were richly decorated with statues, garlands, and symbols of imperial power. At their summit stood a quadriga, the four horse chariot associated with triumph and divine ascent. During the ceremony, the structure was set ablaze, symbolizing the emperor’s spirit rising to join the gods.
Through imagery like this, Roman coinage served not only as currency but also as a powerful medium of imperial messaging. This denarius preserves one of the most striking visual records of how Rome honored its rulers in death and transformed them into divine figures
What's Included
Authentic Roman silver denarius of Divus Antoninus Pius
Sterling silver chain with 14k gold upgrades available at checkout
18k chain options available by message
Peregrine Pendants authenticity documentation
Coin origin and care instructions
Premium packaging suitable for gifting or display
Coin Details
Coin: Roman silver denarius of Divus Antoninus Pius
Mint: Rome. Date: AD 161
Obverse: DIVVS ANTONINVS. Bare head of Antoninus Pius facing right
Reverse: CONSECRATIO. Eagle standing right with head turned back, perched on a garlanded altar
Material: Ancient silver coin set in solid sterling silver
Divus Antoninus Pius Eagle Denarius Pendant | Roman Consecration Coin
$345.00
Need help?
If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us. We'll get back to you as soon as possible, within 24 hours on weekdays.
Shipping Information
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
Customer Support
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
FAQ’s
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
Contact Us
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
Testimonials
My four daughters absolutely LOVED them! Your work is excellent and the pendants look great- Thank you!
— Eva S.
Thank you for making this spectacular necklace! I provided the denarius of Julia Domna, and they did the rest. I was delighted with the results - and so (more importantly) was my girlfriend.
— Garrett Ryan from Toldinstone
Got the ring today! Love it!
— Margaret B.
The Athenian Owl pendants are awesome! We're saving the gift for a special occasion. My wife loved it, she got it and was all hushed quiet, that smile while opening and handling it for the first few minutes. It's special.
— Joe E.
OMG the coin. It’s sooo gorgeous. I love it so so so so much. Thank you for keeping me in mind and finding this piece of perfection for me.
— Cecilia A.
Curated Classics. History in Every Piece
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.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we proudly ship worldwide. Shipping options and times vary by country - you’ll see available methods at checkout.
Can I send you my own coin to make a pendant?
Absolutely! We love turning personal coins into wearable pieces. Just email us at info@peregrinependants.com to discuss your custom order.
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.
