3199

Marcus Aurelius, AD 161-180. Gold Aureus (7.30 g) minted at Rome, December AD 172-December AD 173

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / Coins: Ancient Start Price:2,500.00 USD Estimated At:5,000.00 - 7,000.00 USD
Marcus Aurelius, AD 161-180. Gold Aureus (7.30 g) minted at Rome, December AD 172-December AD 173
Marcus Aurelius, AD 161-180. Gold Aureus (7.30 g) minted at Rome, December AD 172-December AD 173. Laureate, cuirassed and draped bust right of Marcus Aurelius. Reverse: Marcus Aurelius on horseback right, raising right hand and holding parazonium. RIC 281 [as Rare]; C. 302. A wonderful, high relief portrait of the stoic philosopher-emperor, coupled with a rare reverse. NGC graded AU*; Strike 5/5; Surface 4/5; Fine Style. Our grade is Superb, for that is what it is!.

We all have our favorites. Regarding Roman emperors, it's Marcus Aurelius because of his vision, humanity, perspective and failures. Yes, failures too, because of his living in the twilight of Roman glory, and his acceptance of the limitations of power. Marcus Aurelius embodied Rome, and to read his thoughts today one feels they are just as pertinent and revealing as they were when written by the glow of oil lamps or a campfire .
Estimated Value $5,000 - 7,000.

Provenance: The Durant Collection.