Description

The obverse of the coin shows Emperor Hadrian (117-138 AD) in profile as IMP(erator) CAESAR TRAIANUS HADRIANUS AUG(ustus). On the back, the goddess Fortuna is enthroned with a rudder in her right hand and a cornucopia in her left hand.

The inscription gives Hadrian's full title at this time: PONT(ifex) MAX(imus) TR(ibunitia) POT(estas) CO(n)S(ul) II. This title dates the coin to the year 118 AD The inscription under the goddess's throne interprets her as FORT(una) RED(ux). The sestertius was issued by the Senate in gratitude for the return of Hadrian, who had just been made emperor, from the campaign in the Orient. That's why the letters SC for can be found on both sides of Fortuna Senatus Consultum.