Reproduction Denarius of Hadrian - Galley

Obverse: Laureate bust of Hadrian, facing right. Text around HADRAINVS AVG COS III PP.

Reverse: A praetorian galley, left, with four oarsmen and seven oars, helmsman under arched shelter at stern, with two rudders, prow armed with three spikes, standard above. Text above FELICITATI in exergue AVGVSTI.

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 remaining close to the capital, and he died at Baiae, Italy after nearly 21 years of reign in AD 138.

Date: Rome mint, 134-138 AD

Diameter: 1.8cm