*VF Details. Verdigris on the obvese portrait, but all detail still visible. Ex-Blanchard Lot #1211*
This Roman Imperial AR Denarius, dated 152-153 AD features Marcus Aurelius as Caesar prior to his full reign as Emperor. The obverse carries a finely struck bare head of Marcus Aurelius facing right, draped on the left shoulder, typical of denarii minted in Rome during this period. The reverse displays a standing figure, often Minerva, holding symbolic attributes such as an owl, spear, and shield, representing wisdom and protection.
The coin weighs approximately 3.0 to 3.4 grams with a diameter of around 18-19 mm, composed primarily of silver, which was popular for everyday and ceremonial Roman currency. Though graded as VF Details, this denotes the coin retains visible design elements with moderate wear typical for coins over 1,800 years old, while exhibiting historical character and collector appeal.
RIC 461 is notable as part of Marcus Aurelius’ denarius series struck while he was Caesar under Emperor Antoninus Pius. Coins from this era capture the transition of power and Marcus Aurelius’ rise before his sole emperorship beginning in 161 AD. They serve as important numismatic artifacts for enthusiasts interested in mid-2nd-century Roman imperial iconography and monetary history.
Collectors value pieces like this for their blend of fine imperial portraiture, historical context, and silver content, making them sought-after additions to Roman coin collections focused on the Antonine period. The combination of traits guarantees interest among both specialist Roman numismatists and broader collectors of ancient silver coins.
This AR Denarius offers a tangible connection to Marcus Aurelius’ early career and the Roman Empire’s rich monetary legacy, ideal for display or study as a significant example of Roman Imperial coinage from the mid-2nd century AD.
















