Reproduction Dupondius of Hadrian - Galley

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