© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Caligula S P Q R P P OB CIVES SERVATOS
| Bronze | 26.7 g | 35.5 mm |
| 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 | 26.7 g |
| Diameter | 35.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#247163 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Legend in four lines in oak-wreath.
Script: Latin
Lettering: S P Q R P P OB CIVES SERVATOS
Translation:
Senatus Populusque Romanus Patri Patriae, Ob Cives Servatos.
The senate and the Roman people to the father of the nation, the saviour of the citizens.
Comment
Mass varies: 23.68–30.31 g;Diameter varies: 34.2–36 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Caligula, who was known for his controversial and often tyrannical rule, on the obverse (front side), while the reverse (back side) bears an image of the Roman goddess of liberty, Libertas, holding a scepter and a pileus, a symbol of freedom. This contrast between the authoritarian ruler and the symbol of liberty may reflect the tensions and contradictions of the Roman Empire during Caligula's reign.
