159 NGC MS Roman Empire Antoninus Pius Denarius Salus Mint State (18092401C)

Roman Empire silver denarius, RIC 305, 3.21g. Dated issue (TR POT XXIII = 159/60 CE).  NGC Certified  to Ch MS, Strike 5/5, Surface 3/5. Lustrous surfaces, superb high relief Imperial portrait and the nicely detailed presentation of Salus.  Obverse: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS PP TR P XXIII, laureate bust of emperor. Reverse: SALVS AVG COS IIII, Salus standing left, feeding snake coiled round altar and holding scepter. In ancient Roman religion, Salus was the goddess of safety and well-being (wellfare, health and prosperity) of both the individual and the Roman Empire.  The reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius was one of remarkable prosperity and peace.