Sestertius - Elagabalus (PONTIF MAX TR P S C; Roma and Victory) (218) front Sestertius - Elagabalus (PONTIF MAX TR P S C; Roma and Victory) (218) back
Sestertius - Elagabalus (PONTIF MAX TR P S C; Roma and Victory) (218) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Elagabalus PONTIF MAX TR P S C; Roma and Victory

218 year
Bronze 22.8 g 32 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Elagabalus (Sextus Varius Avitus Basianus) (218-222)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
218
Value
Sestertius (⅛)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
22.8 g
Diameter
32 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#276954
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Roma, helmeted, draped, seated left, holding Victory in extended right hand and spear in left hand; by her side, shield.

Script: Latin

Lettering: PONTIF MAX TR P S C

Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate. Senatus Consultum.
High priest, holder of tribunician power. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 21.77–24.68 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 Victory on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Elagabalus. The image of Victory was meant to symbolize the power and dominance of the Roman Empire, and it was often depicted holding a wreath or a palm branch, as seen on this coin. The use of Victory as a symbol of Roman power and influence can be traced back to the early days of the Roman Republic, and it continued to be used throughout the Roman Empire's history.