Aelius Caesar AR Denarius – CONCORD (Struck under Hadrian)

Roman Imperial Silver Denarius of Aelius Caesar

Obv: L AELIVS CAESAR, bare head right

Rev: T R POT COS II, Concord seated left, holding patera & resting arm on cornucopiae, CONCORD in exergue.

137 AD. · Rome Mint · RIC 436

3.3g · 17mm

Aelius Caesar, born Lucius Ceionius Commodus, was a Roman nobleman who was adopted by Emperor Hadrian in 136 AD as his intended successor. Despite his lack of military and administrative experience, Hadrian’s choice was likely influenced by Aelius’ connections and aristocratic background. However, Aelius never ascended to the throne, as he died of illness in 138 AD, just months before Hadrian himself passed away. He was quickly replaced by Antoninus Pius, who became Hadrian’s more enduring successor.