161-169AD Lucius Verus Silver Denarius – aEF

Lucius Verus: Rome’s Co-Emperor with a Taste for Luxury

Early Life and Imperial Pedigree

Born Lucius Ceionius Commodus on 15 December 130 AD in Rome, Lucius Verus entered the world with silver spoons already clinking. His father, Lucius Aelius Caesar, was Emperor Hadrian’s first adopted heir—a position that could’ve meant glory, had Aelius not inconveniently died before taking the throne. No matter; young Lucius remained firmly in the imperial spotlight.

From Heir to Emperor

In 161 AD, following the death of Emperor Antoninus Pius, the Roman Senate faced a first: it appointed two co-emperors. Marcus Aurelius, the philosopher-king, took the lead, yet generously insisted Lucius Verus share the purple. Thus, for the first time, Rome had joint rulers. A bold experiment—think ancient boardroom with two CEOs.

Military Success (with Style)

Though Marcus stayed in Rome pondering Stoicism, Lucius ventured east to deal with the Parthian threat. He may not have been a military mastermind himself, but under his watch, Roman generals reclaimed Armenia and pushed deep into Parthia. The campaign ended with a triumphant return and a lavish parade in 166 AD. Lucius, ever the showman, loved the pomp—and the applause.

A Taste for the Finer Things

While Marcus toiled, Lucius indulged. He dined sumptuously, adored the theatre, and reportedly brought an actor’s mistress along on his military campaign. Despite his reputation for excess, he kept the empire relatively stable. After all, no one said emperors had to be saints.

Death and Legacy

Tragically—or conveniently—Lucius Verus died in early 169 AD, likely from a stroke or the plague that he helped spread after returning from the East. Marcus Aurelius mourned his co-ruler, later deifying him.

Lucius left behind a mixed legacy: not a philosopher, not a tyrant, but a man who co-ruled Rome and didn’t completely botch it. In a time of immense pressure and foreign threats, that counts for something—even if he did prefer wine over wisdom.

Certificate of Authenticity

We guarantee the authenticity and grade on our products, unless stated otherwise.

All ancient coins are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

In the rare incident you are dissatisfied with an item you purchase from us, simply return it within 7 days (Within Australia) 14 Days (International) and we provide you with a replacement or issue you a refund in full.

Postage Methods within Australia.

We ship Australia wide using registered signed for delievery

Orders under AUD$199 are sent registered signed for mail

Orders above AUD$200 are sent express signed for mail

Do you ship overseas?

Yes, we ship items overseas, using a number of services. Orders under AUD$199 are automatically sent via international registered mail. Items greater than AUD$200 are sent via Express Courier International service.

Tracking & Proof of Shipment

All shipping and tracking information is provided upon time of despatch.