Obverse:
Laureate and draped bust of Hadrian, right.
Text around HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS.
Reverse:
Galley sailing left consisting of six rowers
and nine oars with Hadrian seated beneath
acrostolium flanked by military standard and
vexillum; statue of Triton / Neptune on prow,
brandishing spear or trident. Text above FELICITATI
AVG and below COS III PP, S C across field.
History:
This coin refers to Hadrian’s travels
by sea during his second tour of the empire,
which began in AD 128. During the time this
coin was struck Hadrian visited Syria, Palestina,
and Egypt (Aegyptus) before returning to Italy
in AD 136. Increasing ill-health necessitated
Hadrian's remaining close to the capital,
as well as adopting Aelius and, later, Antoninus
Pius as heirs to the throne.
Date:
Struck Rome, AD 132-135
Diameter:
3.3cm
