Sestertius - Antoninus Pius (ANNONA AVG FELIX S C; Annona) (145-161) front Sestertius - Antoninus Pius (ANNONA AVG FELIX S C; Annona) (145-161) back
Sestertius - Antoninus Pius (ANNONA AVG FELIX S C; Annona) (145-161) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Sestertius - Antoninus Pius ANNONA AVG FELIX S C; Annona

 
Bronze 28.8 g -
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Antoninus Pius (Titus Aelius Hadrianus Antoninus Pius) (138-161)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
145-161
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
28.8 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#261061
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Annona, standing left, holding oblong tablet and rudder upright; to left, two ships, half seen, one showing acrostolium, the other bearing modius and corn-ears; to right, in background, light-house with beacon-light.

Script: Latin

Lettering: ANNONA AVG FELIX S C

Translation:
Annona Augusti, Felix. Senatus Consultum.
Imperial grain supply. The fortunate. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Example of this type:
Trustees of the British Museum

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Sestertius coin features an image of Annona, the Roman goddess of grain and fertility, on the reverse side. This is significant because it highlights the importance of agriculture and food production in the Roman Empire during the reign of Antoninus Pius. The coin's design also includes a depiction of a ship's prow, which may represent the importation of grain from other regions to support the empire's food supply. Overall, this coin provides a fascinating glimpse into the economic and cultural practices of ancient Rome.