COMMODUS (177-192).Rome.Denarius.

Obv : M COMM ANT P FEL AVG BRIT.
Laureate head right.

Rev : P M TR P XIII IMP VIII COS V P P.
Pietas seated left, extending right hand to child and holding transverse sceptre.
RIC 162.
EX BIGA.

Condition : This coin is in a relatively good condition, with some visible wear and minor cracks along the edges. The silver patina has developed evenly, giving the coin an aged, smooth appearance. The patina helps to preserve the details, though some areas show slight flattening due to circulation. The inscriptions and portrait are still clearly visible, which adds to the coin's historical and aesthetic appeal. The overall patina adds character and authenticity to the piece.Very fine.

Material : Silver.
Axis : 12h

Weight : 2.75 gr
Diameter : 18 mm

Commodus, born Lucius Aurelius Commodus in 161 CE, was a Roman emperor who ruled from 180 CE to 192 CE. He was the son of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, and his reign is often remembered for its stark contrast to that of his father. While Marcus Aurelius is remembered as a philosopher-king who ruled wisely, Commodus' rule was marked by excess, instability, and a decline in the reputation of the Roman Empire.

Commodus became co-emperor with his father in 177 CE and took full control after Marcus Aurelius' death in 180 CE. His ascension to the throne marked the end of the Nerva-Antonine dynasty's long period of relative peace and stability. Early in his reign, Commodus chose to abandon many of his father's military campaigns, particularly in the northern provinces, signaling a shift in priorities. His focus was less on expanding or defending the empire and more on securing his personal power and indulging in luxurious and extravagant pursuits.

Commodus was known for his fascination with gladiatorial combat and styled himself as a Hercules-like figure. He often participated in gladiatorial games, a behavior that scandalized the Roman elite, as it was considered inappropriate for an emperor to lower himself to such displays. Commodus' frequent appearances in the arena and his portrayal as a god-like hero contributed to a growing sense of instability and excess at the imperial court.

Under his rule, the administration of the empire became increasingly corrupt. Commodus relied heavily on favorites and courtiers, many of whom abused their power for personal gain. His governance became increasingly erratic, and he is said to have been influenced by sycophants and advisors who manipulated his decisions. The Senate's power and influence were diminished, and Commodus was known to have executed senators who opposed him or whom he perceived as threats.

Commodus' reign also saw several conspiracies against him, reflecting the growing dissatisfaction among the ruling class and the military. In response to these threats, he became more paranoid and ruthless in dealing with perceived enemies. His erratic behavior and mismanagement of the empire led to widespread unrest, and by the end of his reign, the Roman state was in a state of disarray.

In 192 CE, Commodus was assassinated in a conspiracy involving his inner circle, including his mistress Marcia and members of the Praetorian Guard. His death marked the end of the Antonine dynasty and the beginning of a period of political instability known as the Year of the Five Emperors in 193 CE.

Commodus' legacy is largely negative, and he is often seen as a ruler who squandered the stability and prosperity that had been built up by his predecessors. His reign marked the beginning of the empire's slow decline, and his misrule contributed to a loss of confidence in the imperial leadership. Today, Commodus is remembered as one of the more infamous Roman emperors, whose actions helped set the stage for the challenges the empire would face in the coming centuries.