Lot 2556
Hadrian, AD 117-138. AE Dupondius minted at Rome, AD 119-121. Radiate head right of Hadrian with drapery on left shoulder. Reverse: Virtus standing right, holding spear and parazonium; left foot on helmet. RIC 605; BMC 1240; C. 1470. A fantastic example of this denomination; glossy dark green patina. Superb Extremely Fine.
The chief distinction of the dupondius is the radiate crown and its metallic composition. Akin to the sestertii of the period, the dupondii were also struck in orichalcum, a kind of brass. When minted, both denominations were of a bright golden-yellow color and must have dazzled their owners. Nearly two thousand years of resting in the soil created a visually different "look" to these survivors of the greatness that was Rome.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,500.
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