Denarius (Coin) Portraying Emperor Antoninus Pius
Medium
Silver
Dimensions
Diam.: 1.9 cm (3/4 in.)
Classification
coin
Department
Arts of Greece, Rome, and Byzantium
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
10027
Art Historical Context
This exquisite silver denarius, minted in 152 AD during the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius, captures the serene visage of one of Rome's most benevolent rulers. Measuring just 1.9 cm in diameter this tiny artifact from the Art Institute of Chicago Arts of Greece, Rome and Byzantium collection exemplifies the precision of Roman imperial coinage. Antoninus Pius (r. 138–161 AD), adopted successor to Hadrian, is depicted in profile—likely laureate-headed—symbolizing his piety and stability in an era of relative peace known as the Pax Romana. As the standard silver currency of the empire, the dena...
About the Artist
Ancient Roman
The artists attributed to "Ancient Roman" in museum collections represent the anonymous craftsmen who produced the vast output of sculpture, frescoes, mosaics, and reliefs defining Roman visual culture from the Republic (c. 509–27 BCE) to the late Empire (c. 395 CE). Individual identities remain elusive, as Roman makers were typically viewed as skilled tradesmen—often enslaved Greeks or provincial...