Classical Numismatic Group, LLC
Electronic Auction 417 28 Mar 2018
View prices realized
► Sale information
Find similar lots
Marcus Aurelius. AD 161-180. Æ Sestertius (31mm, 26.02 g, 5h). Rome mint. Struck AD 173. Laureate head right / Mercury standing left on pedestal, holding caduceus and purse, within temple with figural columns (telamones); on semicircular pediment: tortoise, cockerel, ram, caduceus, winged helmet, and purse; RELIG AVG in exergue. RIC III 1075; MIR 18, 258-6/30; Banti 256. Near VF, rough dark brown surfaces. Rare.
This type is thought to refer to the famous rain miracle of the "Thundering Legion." While battling Quadi forces along the Danube in AD 173, the Legio XII Fulminata, exhausted by thirst, was close to falling to their opponents. Defeat seemed eminent until a sudden rain storm reinvigorated the Roman troops while frightening the enemy. Marcus attributed the storm to the grace of Mercury, while an alternative Christian version, one that appears to have been established quite early, gave credit to the prayers of Christian soldiers serving in the legion.
This type is thought to refer to the famous rain miracle of the "Thundering Legion." While battling Quadi forces along the Danube in AD 173, the Legio XII Fulminata, exhausted by thirst, was close to falling to their opponents. Defeat seemed eminent until a sudden rain storm reinvigorated the Roman troops while frightening the enemy. Marcus attributed the storm to the grace of Mercury, while an alternative Christian version, one that appears to have been established quite early, gave credit to the prayers of Christian soldiers serving in the legion.