Hadrian, Africa

Obverse:         AVG COS III PP, bare head right.

Reverse:         Africa , wearing elephant trunk on head, reclining left, holding scorpion and cornucopiae and resting left elbow on rock, a basket of corn in front

Mint :              Rome

Date :              134-138 AD

Reference :     RIC II 299; RSC 140

Grade :            VF

Weight :          3.5g

Denom :          Denarius

Metal :            Silver

Dealer :          Ancient Imports

Acquired:        17/06/04

Comments : This issue commemorates Hadrian's travels to Africa in 128 AD. He was the first Emperor to visit Africa . Not to be confused with Mauretania , which he visited in 123 9where he personally oversaw a revolt in this troublesome area). When he went to Africa it rained on his arrival for the first time in the space of five years, and for this he was beloved by the Africans. Hadrian heaped benefactions upon the province and numerous fortresses and military roads were built in Africa