Sestertius - Caligula (DIVO AVG S C; Pietas) (39-40) front Sestertius - Caligula (DIVO AVG S C; Pietas) (39-40) back
Sestertius - Caligula (DIVO AVG S C; Pietas) (39-40) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Caligula DIVO AVG S C; Pietas

 
Bronze 28.5 g 36 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Caligula (Caius Augustus Germanicus) (37-41)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
39-40
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
28.5 g
Diameter
36 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#247161
Rarity index
97%

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: 25.12–30.64 g;
Diameter varies: 34–38.5 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, highlighting the emperor's efforts to promote his own divinity and religious reforms during his reign.