139 NGC Ch VF Roman Empire Marcus Aurelius Caesar Denarius Pietas (25011502C)

Choice Very Fine Roman Empire silver denarius coin. Struck for Caesar Marcus Aurelius at the Rome Mint. Minted 139 CE, 3.68g (heavy flan), RIC 424a, RSC 451, Foss 1 (attributed to 139 CE). Historic Commemorative type issued to celebrate the adoption of Marcus Aurelius by Emperor Antoninus Pius and Marcus' admission to the preist-hood. Caesar was used by emperors to designate their heirs, who would later adopt the title of Augustus when they became emperor. The title originated from the cognomen of Julius Caesar. Superb style with youthful portrait (no facial hair) and priestly implements. Certified by NGC to Ch VF. Obverse: AVRELIVS CAESAR AVG PII F COS, bare head right. Reverse: PIETAS AVG: priestly implements: knife, sprinkler, ewer, lituus & simpulum. Pietas is a Goddess of duty, loyalty and piety.