Marcus Aurelius

The philosopher-emperor, Marcus Aurelius spent most of his reign on the Danube frontier fighting Germanic and Sarmatian invasions. His private journal of Stoic reflections, known as the Meditations, remains one of the most widely read works of ancient philosophy.

Marcus Aurelius is remembered as the last of the 'Five Good Emperors' and the embodiment of Plato's ideal philosopher-king. His decision to elevate his biological son Commodus rather than adopting a capable successor ended the adoptive system that had served Rome so well.

Key Events

161 AD Accession jointly with Lucius Verus; first instance of joint rule in the Principate

165 AD Antonine Plague (possibly smallpox) brought back by returning legions from Parthia

167 AD Beginning of the Marcomannic Wars on the Danube frontier

175 AD Revolt of Avidius Cassius in the East, quickly suppressed

177 AD Elevated son Commodus to co-emperor

180 AD Died at Vindobona (Vienna) or Sirmium during the Danube campaigns

Coinage

Marcus Aurelius's coinage spans his time as Caesar under Antoninus Pius and his two decades as Augustus. Military types reflecting the Danube wars dominate the later issues, while the earlier coins feature the customary virtues. His portrait evolves dramatically from clean-shaven youth to heavily bearded philosopher.

Denominations

Aureus Denarius Sestertius Dupondius As

Notable Types

Germania and Sarmatia victory types
DE GERM and DE SARM types
Lucius Verus joint rule types
Triumph over Parthia types

Common Reverses

CONCORD AVGVSTOR DE GERMANIS DE SARMATIS SALVTI AVGVSTOR PROVIDENTIA DEORVM TR P XXXI IMP VIII COS III P P

Active Mints

Rome

Key Events

Coinage

Related Resources

Further Reading