Hadrian, Bronze Dupondius, c.124-8 AD, Rome

Hadrian (117-138 AD), bronze Dupondius, Rome mint, struck circa 124-128 AD, radiate bust right, slight drapery, rev. Aequitas standing facing, head left, holding scales and cornucopia, 14.42g, 6h (RIC II 654). About extremely fine.

This bronze dupondius was struck at the Rome mint during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, who ruled the Roman Empire from 117 to 138 AD. Hadrian is remembered for strengthening the empire's frontiers, undertaking extensive journeys throughout its provinces and encouraging architecture and cultural development. His reign was characterised by an emphasis on consolidating Roman territory and maintaining stability across the empire.

The obverse depicts Hadrian with a radiate bust facing right, with slight drapery. The radiate crown, decorated with rays, was commonly associated with the dupondius, a bronze denomination traditionally valued at two asses. This feature helped distinguish it from other Roman coin denominations.

The reverse portrays Aequitas, the Roman personification of fairness, equality and honest dealings. She stands facing forward, her head turned to the left, holding a set of scales in one hand and a cornucopia in the other. The scales symbolise fair measurement and justice, while the cornucopia represents abundance and prosperity. Together, these attributes communicate the ideals of equitable government, economic stability and responsible imperial administration under Hadrian.