Sestertius - Commodus (P M TR P XIII IMP VIII COS V P P S C; Salus) (187-188) front Sestertius - Commodus (P M TR P XIII IMP VIII COS V P P S C; Salus) (187-188) back
Sestertius - Commodus (P M TR P XIII IMP VIII COS V P P S C; Salus) (187-188) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Commodus P M TR P XIII IMP VIII COS V P P S C; Salus

 
Bronze 20.5 g 30 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Commodus (Lucius Aurelius Commodus) (177-192)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
187-188
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
20.5 g
Diameter
30 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#265897
Rarity index
94%

Reverse

Salus, draped, seated left on low seat, feeding from patera in right hand snake coiled round altar.

Script: Latin

Lettering: P M TR P XIII IMP VIII COS V P P S C

Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Tertia Decima, Imperator Octavum, Consul Quintum, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum.
High priest, holder of tribunician power for the 13th time, supreme commander (Imperator) for the eighth time, consul for the fifth time, father of the nation. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 19.46–22.34 g;
Diameter varies: 29–30 mm;

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 Salus, who represents safety, security, and well-being. This is fitting, as the coin was minted during the reign of Emperor Commodus, who was known for his focus on maintaining peace and stability throughout the empire. The image of Salus on the coin serves as a symbol of the Roman Empire's commitment to protecting its citizens and ensuring their well-being.