156 NGC AU Antoninus Pius Roman Empire Denarius Salus Snake Altar (20071502C)

Almost Uncirculated Emperor Antoninus Pius Roman Empire silver denarius coin. 3.33 g, RIC 264. Dated TR POT XX = 156/7 CE. NGC Certified to AU. Well struck with exceptional style, lustrous gold toned surfaces. Obverse: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS PP IMP II, laureate bust of emperor. Reverse: TR POT XX COS IIII, Salus seated left feeding snake coiled around altar. Salus is an appropriate reverse type for this emperor as the Roman Empire experienced a period of peace, tranquility and prosperity. Salus was the goddess of safety and welfare. Her temple on the Quirinal at Rome, dedicated in 302 BC, was the scene of an annual sacrifice on August 5.