Marcus Aurelius. AD 161-180. Æ Sestertius (31mm, 23.23 g, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 173. VF.

Electronic Auction 568
Lot: 487.
Closing Date: Aug 14 2024 10:00 ET

Roman Imperial, Bronze

Estimate: $ 150

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Marcus Aurelius. AD 161-180. Æ Sestertius (31mm, 23.23 g, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 173. Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right / RELIG AVG in exergue, Mercury standing left on pedestal, holding caduceus and purse, within temple with figural columns (telamones); on semicircular pediment, tortoise, cockerel, ram, caduceus, winged helmet, and purse. RIC III 1074; MIR 18, 258-6/37; Banti 260. Dark green patina, some red, rough surfaces. VF.

Ex Moruzzi Numismatica inventory MR72155 (ND).

This type is thought to refer to the famous rain miracle of the “Thundering Legion.” While battling Quadi forces along the Danube in AD 173, the Legio XII Fulminata, exhausted by thirst, was close to falling to their opponents. Defeat seemed eminent until a sudden rain storm reinvigorated the Roman troops while frightening the enemy. Marcus attributed the storm to the grace of Mercury, while an alternative Christian version, one that appears to have been established quite early, gave credit to the prayers of Christian soldiers serving in the legion.

Closing Date and Time: 14 August 2024 at 12:42:00 ET.

All winning bids are subject to a 20% buyer’s fee.