© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Commodus VIRTVS AVG IMP III COS II P P S C; Virtus
| Bronze | 21.4 g | 31.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Commodus (Lucius Aurelius Commodus) (177-192) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 179-180 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 21.4 g |
| Diameter | 31.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#265564 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Virtus, seated right, holding reversed spear in right hand aand parazonium in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVS AVG IMP III COS II P P S C
Translation:
Virtus Augusti. Imperator Tertium, Consul Secundum, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum.
Courage of the emperor. Supreme commander (Imperator) for the third time, consul for the second time, father of the nation. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 13.338–27.41 g;Diameter varies: 31–32 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 Virtus on the reverse, which was a common motif on coins during the reign of Commodus. Virtus was a personification of the Roman virtue of military strength and courage, and was often depicted holding a spear and shield. The inclusion of this image on the coin may have been intended to emphasize the importance of military power and virtue during Commodus' rule.
