© webexco (CC BY-SA)
© webexco (CC BY-SA)
Sestertius - Antoninus Pius ROMAE AETERNAE S C
| Bronze | 25.1 g | 33 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Antoninus Pius (Titus Aelius Hadrianus Antoninus Pius) (138-161) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 140-144 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 25.1 g |
| Diameter | 33 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#260880 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Decastyle temple, with statues on roof and in pediment.
Script: Latin
Lettering: ROMAE AETERNAE S C
Translation:
Romae Aeternae. Senatus Consultum.
Everlasting Rome. Decree of the senate.
Comment
The reverse of the coin likely commemorates the completion of the Temple of Venus and Roma,
dedicated to the goddesses Venus Felix (the Bringer of Good Fortune) and Roma Aeterna (Eternal Rome).
This temple, one of Ancient Rome’s most colossal structures, was designed by Emperor Hadrian himself.
Construction began in 121 AD and finished in 141 AD during the reign of Antoninus Pius.
Mass varies: 22.03–29.5 g;
Diameter varies: 32–34 mm;
Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Sestertius coin features an image of Antoninus Pius, who was known for his extensive building projects throughout the Roman Empire. One of his most notable projects was the construction of the Pantheon in Rome, which was completed in 126 AD and still stands today as one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.
