© Münzkabinett - Staatliche Museen zu Berlin (CC BY-SA 4.0)
© Münzkabinett - Staatliche Museen zu Berlin (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Semis S C; Minerva
| Bronze | 5.3 g | 22 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Domitian (Titus Flavius Domitianus) (81-96) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 88-89 |
| Value | 1 Semis = ½ As = 1⁄32 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 5.3 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#252084 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Owl standing left, head front.
Script: Latin
Lettering: S C
Translation:
Senatus Consultum.
Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 5.12–5.57 g;Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Semis coin , which features Minerva on the reverse, was part of a series of coins issued during the reign of Emperor Domitian (81-96 AD). These coins were known as the "Minerva" series and were minted to promote the cult of the Roman goddess Minerva, who was revered for her wisdom, intelligence, and strategic thinking. The fact that this coin was made of bronze and weighs 5.3 grams suggests that it was a widely circulating coin that was used in everyday transactions, making it a fascinating piece of history that provides insight into the economic and cultural practices of ancient Rome.
