Marcus Aurelius, 161-180. Medallion (Bronze, 41 mm, 49.20 g, 6 h), 168-169. M ANTONINVS AVG - ARM PARTH MAX Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Marcus Aurelius to right, seen from behind. Rev. TR P XXIII • IMP V - COS III Faustina Junior (?), diademed and draped, seated left on throne, extending her right hand and holding long scepter in her left; to left, two naked Genii advancing right, holding large cornucopiae between them. Cohen 909. Dressel 42. Grueber-Poole 11. Gnecchi II, 56 and pl. 63, 6. MIR 1045-1/37. Mittag 26.9 (this coin, A12/R18). Very rare. A bold and impressive medallion struck on a broad and heavy flan, and with a wonderful portrait. Earthen deposits and with minor traces of corrosion, otherwise, about extremely fine.



The reverse of this impressive medallion likely refers to Commodus and Annius Verus, both of whom were appointed Caesars on 12 October 166. The depiction of a seated woman and two Genii is often interpreted as representing Empress Faustina and her two sons, but it is more likely an allegorical scene, symbolizing the association of the imperial family with Fecunditas and the two Genii. This interpretation is supported by medallions featuring portraits of Commodus and his younger brother Annius Verus, which celebrate 'TEMPORVM FELICITAS' (Mittag 113). The message is clear: the imperial couple and the presence of two (male) heirs promise a prosperous future for the empire. However, as we know today, reality unfolded quite differently. Annius Verus died on 10 September 169, shortly after the minting of this medallion, due to complications from a failed operation. His brother Commodus, though he succeeded his father, would become perhaps the most megalomaniacal tyrant ever to sit on the Roman imperial throne.