Marcus Aurelius (Caesar Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus) became the emperor of the Roman Empire on the same day that his brother Lucius Verus did, in March 161. Their father, Antoninus Pius, had died, paving the way for the siblings. They co-ruled until Lucius Verus’ death in 169; Marcus Aurelius carried on alone. In 177, Marcus Aurelius again gained a familial co-ruler: his son Commodus, who would himself become sole ruler when his father Marcus Aurelius died in 180.
There are quite a few different coins available to collectors who are interested in Marcus Aurelius coins specifically. These may include, at any one time, various authentic coins from Marcus Aurelius’ time both as a co-emperor with Lucius Verus or Commodus, and his time as a lone ruler. Modern reproductions may also fit other collectors’ needs better.