Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus started their joint reign as co-emperors in 161 A.D., following the death of their adoptive father, Emperor Antoninus Pius. Although Marcus had co-ruled with Antoninus for years, the message to the citizens indicating the favor of the gods for their reign was still very important.
„Providentia Deorum” means ”the foresight of the gods”. It’s a reference to the belief that the gods were responsible for providing for the well-being and prosperity of the Roman Empire and its citizen. Emperors used it during their reign to ensure Roman people that the gods favored their rule. Here we have an outstanding example of Marcus Aurelius denarius with „Providentia Deorum”, minted in Rome 162-163 A.D.
🔸17,6/17,1mm /3,45g
🔸OBV: M ANTONINVS AVG IMP II, Head of Marcus Aurelius, laureate, right;
🔸REV: PROV DEOR TR P XVII COS III, Providentia, draped, standing left, holding globe on extended right hand and cornucopiae in left hand
🔸RIC 68
