A.D. 161-180 Marcus Aurelius Bronze Sestertius

Struck during the reign of Marcus Aurelius, these bronze coins are almost as large as a half dollar and twice as thick. The Sestertius` size allowed emperors to commemorate their victories, triumphs or virtues as rulers. Works left by Marcus Aurelius show he was a philosopher-king who was forced to spend most of his time defending Rome`s borders. Despite invasions, revolts and an outbreak of the plague, the golden age in the Empire continued.