Silver denarius of Sabina, wife of Hadrian (AD 117–138), struck at the Rome mint between AD 128–137, belongs to issues from the later phase of Hadrian’s reign, during which imperial coinage consistently emphasized the role of the empress within dynastic ideology.
The obverse presents a bust of Sabina facing right with the legend SABINA AVGVSTA HADRIANI AVG P P, highlighting her status as Augusta and her association with Hadrian. The extended form of the legend, including reference to the emperor’s title Pater Patriae, is characteristic of issues from the closing years of his rule.
The reverse depicts Concordia seated left, holding a patera and resting her arm on a statuette of Spes, with a cornucopia placed below the throne, and the legend CONCORDIA AVG. This type represents a more elaborate iconographic variant, combining the symbolism of concord (concordia), hope (Spes), and prosperity (cornucopia). The integration of these attributes conveys a layered message relating to harmony within the imperial household and the well-being of the state.
Roman Imperial
Sabina (wife of Hadrian 117-138), Denarius 129-137, Rome mint
Obverse: laureate head right
SABINA AVGVSTA HADRIANI AVG P P
Reverse: Concordia seated to left, holding patera and resting arm on statuette of Spes, cornucopiae below throne
CONCORDIA AVG
Diameter 19 mm, weight 2.26 g
