Hadrian
117–138 AD
Hadrian succeeded Trajan in AD 117 and ruled for over two decades, guiding the empire through a period of consolidation and stability. He is best known for strengthening frontiers, including the construction of Hadrian’s Wall in Britain, and for reorganising provincial administration. A cultured and intellectual ruler, he travelled extensively across the empire, promoting civic development and Hellenic culture. His reign emphasised peace, internal reform, and architectural patronage, leaving a lasting legacy in both Rome and the provinces. Hadrian died in AD 138, naming Antoninus Pius as his successor and securing a smooth transition within the adoptive emperors.
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WRB 10932 — Æ Dupondius
Æ Dupondius. Radiate bust right, drapery on far shoulder. ® PONT MAX TR POT COS II S‑C, FORT RED in exergue, Fortuna seated left, holding rudder and cornucopiae. RIC II, 557.
£55.00
WRB 10764 — Æ As (26mm)
Æ As (26mm). HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS, laureate head right. ® COS III S‑C, Salus standing right, feeding snake held in arms from patera. RIC II, 669.
£65.00