Hadrian Pax Sestertius Replica | Hand-Struck Bronze Coin

Why collectors buy this piece

• Inspired by the celebrated “Alphaeus Master” portrait type
• Features one of the most expressive portraits found on Hadrian’s bronze coinage
• Displays Pax with a branch and cornucopia, symbols of peace and prosperity
• Based on an exceptionally rare and highly valued ancient sestertius
• Impressive large-format bronze coin weighing almost 30 grams
• Faithfully reproduced using traditional hand-struck methods

Best suited for collectors drawn to Hadrian’s finest portrait coinage, large Roman bronzes, and the symbolism of Pax.

Overview & Craftsmanship

This Hadrian Pax sestertius is a hand-struck solid bronze replica inspired by an exceptionally rare Roman issue associated with the engraver conventionally known as the “Alphaeus Master.” Its defining feature is the powerful bare-headed portrait of Hadrian, rendered with unusually detailed hair, beard, and facial features.

The reverse depicts Pax standing left, holding a branch and cornucopia. Each coin is individually struck by hand, producing natural differences in flan shape, centering, relief, and surface texture.

Historical & Numismatic Background

• The original sestertius was struck at Rome around AD 133–135, during the later years of Hadrian’s reign.
• Its exceptionally refined portrait has been attributed to a die engraver named the “Alphaeus Master” by C. T. Seltman.
• The artist’s actual identity remains uncertain; “Alphaeus Master” is a scholarly designation based on the distinctive engraving style.
• Pax personified peace and prosperity. She holds a branch in her extended right hand and a cornucopia in her left.
• The letters S C refer to Senatus Consultum, traditionally indicating senatorial authorization for Roman bronze coinage.
• A celebrated ancient example of this die pairing became one of the highest-priced Roman bronze coins ever sold at auction.

Numismatic References:

This replica is inspired by ancient issues documented in standard numismatic references, including:

– RIC II.3 2167 (RIC II 769 in the earlier edition)

– Cohen 1016

– BMCRE 1528

– Numismatica Genevensis 5 (2008), lot 233

– NAC 54, lot 432

– C. T. Seltman, “Greek Sculpture and Some Festival Coins,” Hesperia 17 (1948), pp. 71–85

Technical Details & Variations

Type: Hadrian PAX AVG sestertius replica

Denomination represented: Æ Sestertius

Mint: Rome

Era represented: 133-135 AD

Material: Solid bronze (Æ)

Weight: approx. 30 gr

Dimensions: approx. 35 mm

Manufacturing method: Hand-struck (hammered)

Obverse: Bare-headed and draped bust of Hadrian, right
Legend:
HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P

Reverse: Pax standing left, holding a branch in her extended right hand and a cornucopia in her left; S C across the fields
Legend:
PAX AVG / S C

Due to the traditional hand-striking process, variations in weight, diameter, strike, and surface are expected.

Intended Use

Suitable for:

– collectors of Roman imperial bronze coinage

– historical and educational displays

– reenactment and study collections

– distinctive numismatic gifts

Replica Disclaimer

This item is a hand-struck replica inspired by ancient coinage. It is not an original ancient coin.

Explore related Hadrian and Roman sestertius pages:

• See the Hadrian Hispania Travel Series sestertius replica
• View the Trajan Pax sestertius replica
• Browse Roman sestertius replicas