Hadrian, 117-138. Aureus (Gold, 20 mm, 7.18 g, 6 h), Rome, circa 124-125. HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS Laureate head of Hadrian to right, with slight drapery on his left shoulder. Rev. COS / III She-wolf standing right, suckling the twins Romulus and Remus. BMC 444. Calicó 1231. Cohen 420. RIC 711. Strack 194. A very attractive piece with an excellent portrait struck in high relief. Minor marks and light scratches, otherwise, about extremely fine.



This beautiful aureus depicting the Lupa Romana with the twins Romulus and Remus evokes the mythical origins of Rome. The she-wolf suckling the two founders symbolizes both divine protection and the city’s unique destiny. By selecting this image, Hadrian deliberately aligned himself with the founding legend and presented himself as guardian of Roman tradition. In this way, the coin combines political legitimation with a reminder of the empire’s mythical beginnings.