© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Commodus SALVS P M TR P X IMP VII COS IIII P P S C; Salus
| Bronze | 21.1 g | 30 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Commodus (Lucius Aurelius Commodus) (177-192) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 184-185 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 21.1 g |
| Diameter | 30 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#265817 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Salus, draped, seated left on low seat on which are figures of Spes and sphinx, feeding out of patera in right hand, snake erect before column, which bears the figure of Bacchus (?) and at base of which is a cup; to left, tree.
Script: Latin
Lettering: SALVS P M TR P X IMP VII COS IIII P P S C
Translation:
Salus. Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Decima, Imperator Septimum, Consul Quartum, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum.
Health. High priest, holder of tribunician power for the tenth time, supreme commander (Imperator) for the seventh time, consul for the fourth time, father of the nation. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 18.21–24.98 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 Salus, who was the patron deity of the Roman Empire during the reign of Commodus. The coin's design was meant to promote the idea of Salus as the protector of the empire and its people, and it was likely used as a symbol of hope and prosperity during a time of political and social unrest.
