Sestertius - Commodus VIRT AVG P M TR P X IMP VII COS IIII P P S C
| Bronze | - | - |
| 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 |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#265820 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Commodus, in military attire, riding on horse galloping right, striking at panther with javelin, which has broken off in its chest.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRT AVG P M TR P X IMP VII COS IIII P P S C
Translation:
Virtus Augusti. Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Decima, Imperator Septimum, Consul Quartum, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum.
Courage of the emperor. 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
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a portrait of Commodus, who was known for his vanity and excesses. He was often depicted in art and literature as a decadent and incompetent ruler, and his reign was marked by corruption and political instability. Despite this, he was still revered as a god by the Roman people, as indicated by the title "VIRT AVG" on the coin, which stands for "Virtus Augusti," or "the virtue of the emperor." This contrast between the emperor's actual character and his public image is a fascinating aspect of Roman history and culture.
