© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Commodus VIRTVTI AVG P M TR P XII IMP VIII COS V P P S C; Virtus and Victory
| Bronze | 24.9 g | 29 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Commodus (Lucius Aurelius Commodus) (177-192) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 186-187 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 24.9 g |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#265890 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Virtus, helmeted, in military attire, standing left, holding Victory in extended right hand and leaning on shield; spear rests against left arm.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVTI AVG P M TR P XII IMP VIII COS V P P S C
Translation:
Virtuti Augusti. Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Duoecima, Imperator Octavum, Consul Quintum, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum.
To the courage of the emperor. High priest, holder of tribunician power for the twelfth time, supreme commander (Imperator) for the eighth time, consul for the fifth time, father of the nation. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 17.54–31.03 g;Diameter varies: 26–31 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 the image of the Roman goddess Virtus, who represents virtue and moral excellence, on one side, and the personification of Victory on the other side. This symbolizes the idea that the Roman Empire, under the rule of Commodus, was strong and virtuous, and that victory was a key aspect of its success.
