The Roman Æ As coin of Emperor Hadrian, who ruled from AD 117 to 138, and NGC certified, is a bronze coin representing one of the most influential emperors of the Roman Empire. Hadrian is famous for shifting the empire’s focus from expansion to consolidation, strengthening borders, and engaging in vast building projects such as Hadrian’s Wall in Britain. He was also a patron of Hellenistic culture, promoting arts and architecture throughout the empire.

The Æ As coin typically features a prominent laureate bust of Hadrian on the obverse, exhibiting his characteristic beard and hairstyle, which were significant innovations in imperial portraiture symbolizing wisdom and maturity. The reverse commonly includes various personifications, gods, or symbols relevant to Roman values and Hadrian’s policies, often emphasizing peace and prosperity.

This coin is approximately 27-29 mm in diameter and weighs around 10-13 grams, reflecting the standard weight for the Æ As during Hadrian’s time. As a piece of Roman bronze coinage, it served circulating monetary purposes across the empire, making it accessible to ordinary Romans and reflecting imperial propaganda through its imagery.

The NGC certification guarantees the authenticity and grade of the coin, making it an attractive collectible for those interested in Roman history, art, and numismatics. The coin offers a direct connection to Hadrian’s reign, his reforms, and his cultural legacy, as well as to the everyday economic life in Roman society.

In summary, this NGC-certified Æ As of Hadrian is a genuine artifact linking collectors to a period marked by architectural innovation, cultural flourishing, and political stability, encapsulated in the portrait and symbolism captured on this everyday bronze coin.