© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Commodus IMP III COS II P P S C; Minerva
179 year| Bronze | 24.3 g | 32 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 179 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 24.3 g |
| Diameter | 32 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#264324 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Minerva, helmeted, draped, standing left, droping incense from right hand onto altar and resting left hand on round shield set on ground; spear rests against her left arm.
Script: Latin
Lettering: IMP III COS II P P S C
Translation:
Imperator Tertium, Consul Secundum, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum.
Supreme commander (Imperator) for the third time, consul for the second time, father of the nation. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 22.73–27.06 g;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 Minerva on the reverse, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Commodus. Minerva was the goddess of wisdom, war, and crafts, and was often depicted with an owl, which symbolized wisdom and knowledge. The inclusion of Minerva on this coin may have been a nod to the emperor's desire to promote wisdom and knowledge throughout the empire.
