Marcus Aurelius Denarius (Consecratio issue)

Roman Empire, Rome Mint · 180 AD

A silver Roman denarius featuring the bearded portrait of the deified Marcus Aurelius and an eagle on the reverse.

Country: Roman Empire, Rome Mint
Year: 180 AD
Denomination: Denarius
Metal: Silver (approx. 75-80% fineness)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified May 4, 2026More roman empire, rome mint coins →

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Overview

A silver Roman denarius featuring the bearded portrait of the deified Marcus Aurelius and an eagle on the reverse.

Historical significance

This posthumous 'Consecratio' issue was struck by Commodus to commemorate the deification of his father, Marcus Aurelius, the last of the 'Five Good Emperors'. It signifies the transition of the emperor's soul to the gods.

Obverse (front)

Bare head of Marcus Aurelius right, with distinctive thick curly hair and beard. Legend: DIVVS M ANTONINVS PIVS.

Reverse (back)

An eagle standing right on a decorated altar (pulvinar), head turned back left. Legend: CONSECRATIO.

Estimated value

$60-$120 in Fine condition, $150-$350 in Very Fine to Extremely Fine condition.

What drives this coin's value

Centering of the strike, clarity of the 'Consecratio' legend, and the preservation of the hair details on the portrait.

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine. The portrait retains good detail in the beard, but there is significant surface wear, minor scratches, and some dark toning/patina.

Mintage & rarity

Common for the period; widely distributed memorial issue.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Look for a natural 'flow' of metal under magnification. Beware of casting bubbles or a seam on the edge. High-quality silver fakes exist; check weight and diameter against standard specs.

Notable varieties & errors

Minor variations in the altar decoration or the direction of the eagle's head.

Similar coins

Similar posthumous issues exist for Lucius Verus and Faustina the Elder, but are distinguished by the portrait and specific naming legends.

Care & preservation

Store in PVC-free flips or archival trays. Avoid cleaning or polishing as it removes the historical patina and destroys market value. Handle by the edges.