Sestertius - Claudius (IMP T VESP AVG REST S C; Spes) (80-81) front Sestertius - Claudius (IMP T VESP AVG REST S C; Spes) (80-81) back
Sestertius - Claudius (IMP T VESP AVG REST S C; Spes) (80-81) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Claudius IMP T VESP AVG REST S C; Spes

 
Bronze 24 g 34.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Titus (Titus Flavius Vespasianus) (79-81)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
80-81
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
24 g
Diameter
34.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#251270
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Spes standing, left holding flower in right and raising skirt with left.

Script: Latin

Lettering: IMP T VESP AVG REST S C

Translation:
Imperator Titus Vespasianus Augustus Restituit, Senatus Consultum.
Supereme commander (Imperator) Titus Vespasian, emperor (Augustus), has restored [this coin], decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 21.45–27.47 g;
Diameter varies: 32–35 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 goddess Spes (meaning "hope" in Latin) on its reverse side, which was a common motif in Roman coinage during the reign of Claudius. The depiction of Spes was meant to symbolize the hope for a prosperous and peaceful reign under the emperor's leadership.