Sestertius - Antoninus Pius (S C; Aeneas, Anchises, and Ascanius) (140-144) front Sestertius - Antoninus Pius (S C; Aeneas, Anchises, and Ascanius) (140-144) back
no image

Sestertius - Antoninus Pius S C; Aeneas, Anchises, and Ascanius

 
Bronze 22.9 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
140-144
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
22.9 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#260886
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Aeneas, advancing right, carrying Anchises on left shoulder and holding Ascanius by the hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: S C

Translation:
Senatus Consultum.
Decree of the senate.

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a depiction of Aeneas, Anchises, and Ascanius, who are characters from Virgil's epic poem, the Aeneid. The Aeneid tells the story of the Trojan hero Aeneas and his journey to Italy, where he becomes the ancestor of the Roman people. The inclusion of these characters on the coin suggests that the Roman Empire was interested in promoting its cultural heritage and literary traditions through its currency.