ANTONINUS PIUS
AD 138-161
AR Denarius. 3.46g, 18mm
MINTED: Rome mint, AD 139
REF: RIC 43 (scarce); RSC 833; BMCRE pg 17, 85
OBVERSE: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P, bare head right.
REVERSE: TR P COS II, Clasped hands holding winged caduceus and two corn-ears.

Notes:
Well-centered and with beautiful iridescent toning.  Minor edge splits. 
 
Provenance:
Ex Phil Peck Collection
 
Historical Notes:
Antoninus Pius ruled for 23 years and is counted amongst the 'Five Good Emperors' of Rome during the 2nd century AD.  Even though he was not the first (or even second) choice of his predecessor Hadrian to succeed him, the 52-year old Pius was widely respected by his colleagues in the Senate and as emperor would become very popular with the people. 
 
His reign was a time of peace and prosperity for the empire, and he was himself an intelligent, moderate, and fair-minded ruler.  Pius enacted laws that protected slaves and exercised clemency against those who spoke or plotted against him.  He also avoided heavily taxing the people, and carefully managed the state finances. His death of natural causes in 160 at the age of 75 was cause for great mourning amongst the people.