© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Caligula DIVO AVG S C; Pietas
| Bronze | 25.6 g | 34.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Caligula (Caius Augustus Germanicus) (37-41) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 37-38 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 25.6 g |
| Diameter | 34.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#247153 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Front view of hexastyle garlanded temple surmounted by quadriga. In front, Caligula, veiled and togate, sacrifices with patera over garlanded altar right; one attendant leads bull to altar right; a second holds patera.
Script: Latin
Lettering: DIVO AVG S C
Unabridged legend: Divo Augustus. Senatus Consultum.
Translation: To the divine emperor. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 22.99–30.58 g;Diameter varies: 33–37 mm;
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 emperor Caligula on one side, and the goddess Pietas on the other. This suggests that Caligula was attempting to promote himself as a divine ruler, with the goddess Pietas serving as a symbol of his piety and devotion to the gods. This coin, therefore, provides a unique insight into the propaganda and ideology of Caligula's reign.
