Auction Catalogue
Marcus Aurelius (161-180), Sestertius, 176-7, Rome, laureate bust right, rev. trophy of arms, de sarmatis in exergue, 26.09gm (RIC 1190; C 174). Good fine, dark brown patina (£40-50)
The reign of Marcus Aurelius was plagued by wars in the east and on the Danube frontier. Rome’s adversaries in central Europe were the Marcommani in Bohemia and the Quadi in neighbouring Moravia. They were joined by the Sarmathian Jazyges, who inhabited the Hungarian plain. After initial reverses the Roman legions gained the upper hand and in 175 Aurelius assumed the title Sarmaticus in 175
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