2019-12-31 Tue

Emperor Commodus ruled the Roman Empire as a joint ruler with his father from 177 to 180 CE and as a sole ruler from 180 to 192 CE. His reign is commonly considered to mark the end of the golden period in the history of the Roman Empire known as the Pax Romana.

Commodus was the first Emperor to succeed his father (Marcus Aurelius), as Emperor Marcus was adopted by Emperor Antoninus Pius. During his solo reign, the Empire enjoyed a period of reduced military conflict. His assassination provoked civil discord that put an end the 84 years of peace his father and grandfather achieved.

The above-shown sestertius was issued under his reign from Rome mint. The obverse of a coin depicts the Commodus (in center) togate, standing facing, turned left, clasping right hands over a low altar with Serapis (on left), standing right, draped and wearing a polos; Isis (on left behind Serapis to right) standing right holding a sistrum, Victory (on right) standing left, crowning the emperor. On the other hand, the reverse of a coin engraved laureate draped bust of Commodus right, seen from behind.

Image Source: Heritage Auctions