Sestertius - Antoninus Pius (PIETATI AVG COS IIII S C; Pietas) (158-159) front Sestertius - Antoninus Pius (PIETATI AVG COS IIII S C; Pietas) (158-159) back
Sestertius - Antoninus Pius (PIETATI AVG COS IIII S C; Pietas) (158-159) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Sestertius - Antoninus Pius PIETATI AVG COS IIII S C; Pietas

 
Bronze 27.4 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
158-159
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
27.4 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#261347
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Pietas, draped, standing left, holding globe on extended right hand and child in left arm: to left and right, a small child standing, left, each raising right hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: PIETATI AVG COS IIII S C

Translation:
Pietati Augustae, Consul Quartum. Senatus Consultum.
To the venerable piety, consul for the fourth time. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 25.97–28.86 g;

Example of this type:
Trustees of the British Museum

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Pietas, the goddess of piety and devotion, on the reverse side. This highlights the importance of family and religious values during the reign of Antoninus Pius.