Roman Imperial: Marcus Aurelius, as Caesar (AD 161-180). AV aureus (19mm, 7.19 gm, 5h). NGC MS★ 5/5 - 4/5, Fine Style....

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Ex Leu Numismatik, 1999

Marcus Aurelius, as Caesar (AD 161-180). AV aureus (19mm, 7.19 gm, 5h). NGC MS★ 5/5 - 4/5, Fine Style. Rome, AD 147-148. AVRELIVS-CAESAR AVG PII F, bare headed, draped bust of Marcus Aurelius right, seen from behind / TR•POT•II-COS•II, Minerva standing facing, helmeted head right, grounded spear in right hand, resting left hand on shield. Calicó 1925a (these dies). RIC III (Antoninus Pius) 438a.

From the Mirabilis Collection. Ex Numismatica Ars Classica, Auction 138 (18 May 2023), lot 713; Numismatica Ars Classica, Auction 97 (12 December 2016), lot 147; Leu Numismatik, Auction 75 (26 October 1999), lot 1526.

Originally given the name Marcus Annius Verus, the future Marcus Aurelius was born in AD 121 into a patrician family of Spanish origin. Gaining the favor of Emperor Hadrian early on, he was educated at the Imperial court and adopted by Antoninus Pius at 17, alongside Lucius Verus, as part of Hadrian's succession plan. Upon Antoninus Pius's ascension to the throne in AD 138, Marcus was elevated to Caesar, marking the start of his prominent role in governance.

As emperor, Marcus Aurelius navigated the Roman Empire through numerous military conflicts, including the Marcomannic Wars, and faced a devastating plague that significantly impacted the Roman population. His tenure is notably marked by his Stoic philosophy, as captured in his work "Meditations," which remains influential. Despite the lack of military training, his leadership during these tumultuous times reflected a deep commitment to his duties and philosophical principles. Marcus Aurelius died in AD 180, leaving a legacy as a philosopher-king, revered for his wisdom and the fortitude with which he governed the Roman Empire.

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