© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Antoninus Pius S C; Spes
| Bronze | 25.5 g | 34 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 | 25.5 g |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#260885 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Spes, draped, advancing left, holding dress and gathering up fold of skirt.
Script: Latin
Lettering: S C
Translation:
Senatus Consultum.
Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 22.27–29.55 g;Diameter varies: 33–35.5 mm;
Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Spes (Spes), who represents hope, on its reverse side. This is fitting, as Antoninus Pius, the emperor who issued the coin, was known for his efforts to promote peace and prosperity throughout the empire. The inclusion of Spes on the coin may have been a way to emphasize the emperor's commitment to these values and to inspire hope in the people who used the coin.
