Orphaned at the age of ten, P. Aulius Hadrianus was placed under the care of guardians, one being the future emperor Trajan. He embarked upon a military career when he was about twenty-four and married Trajan's grandniece Sabina. Shortly before the emperor's death he was adopted, which made transition to power smooth. Upon his accession to the throne, Hadrian set to work strengthening the empire, including building a vast wall from Tyre to Solway in Britain; much of which can still be seen today. In addition to fortifying the empire, Hadrian visited many of the provinces in the company of his wife and close friend Antinous. On these lovely coins we see the emperor wearing a laurel wreath as symbol of his imperial power, and bearded. The engraver has shown Hadrian as proud, noble and dignified; befitting a great ruler who was universally admired. In their gold settings these coins are accessories worth of nobility.
- (FJ.6485)
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