Marcus Aurelius Denarius

I am very excited. I have wanted to add a denarius of Marcus Aurelius to my collection for 2 1/2 years. I have been patiently waiting for the "right" one. I wanted one in at least vf condition, I wanted a strong portrait, and I wanted an interesting reverse. I believe this one ticks all the boxes for me. I also like the fact that it is a part of a pedigreed collection. It also seems to be quite scarce. I found 1 on CNG, and 4 on Acsearch.

I love the reverse on this coin. It reminds me very much of my Titus Judea Capta denarius with trophy and captive. I had no idea M. Aurelius issued this type of reverse. Of course in this case it is a German captive. It makes me wonder if Marcus Aurelius was referring back to Flavian times with this reverse. Marcus Aurelius is a fascinating historical figure for me. I very much enjoyed his "Meditations", and he played a major role in his time. When I saw this coin I knew I had to have it.

Please post your coins of Marcus Aurelius.


Marcus Aurelius, 161-180. Denarius (Silver, 19 mm, 3.31 g, 6 h), Rome, 173. M ANTONINVS AVG TR P XXVII Laureate head of Marcus Aurelius to right. Rev. IMP VI COS III German captive seated left at foot of a trophy. Cohen 300. RIC 280. Well centered and attractively toned. Nearly extremely fine.
From the collection of W. F. Stoecklin, Amriswil, Switzerland, acquired prior to 1975.
Obolos 9 by Nomos. March 25, 2018