Sestertius - Galba (LIBERTAS RESTITVTA S C; Libertas and Roma) (68-69) front Sestertius - Galba (LIBERTAS RESTITVTA S C; Libertas and Roma) (68-69) back
Sestertius - Galba (LIBERTAS RESTITVTA S C; Libertas and Roma) (68-69) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Sestertius - Galba LIBERTAS RESTITVTA S C; Libertas and Roma

 
Bronze 26.4 g 35.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Galba (Servius Sulpicius Galba) (68-69)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
68-69
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarii
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
26.4 g
Diameter
35.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#245278
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Galba, togate, standing left, gesturing with left hand to kneeled Libertas, draped, right; between them, Roma, helmeted, in military dress, standing right, carrying shield

Script: Latin

Lettering: LIBERTAS RESTITVTA S C

Translation:
Libertas Restituta, Senatus Consultum
Freedom restored. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 25.22–27.19 g;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features the goddess Libertas, who was a symbol of freedom and liberty in ancient Rome. The coin was minted during the reign of Emperor Galba, who ruled from 68-69 AD and was known for his attempts to restore the Roman Empire to its former glory. The image of Libertas on the coin may have been a nod to Galba's efforts to promote freedom and prosperity throughout the empire. Additionally, the coin's design includes the abbreviation "S C," which stands for "Senatus Consulto," or "by decree of the Senate," indicating that the coin was issued with the approval of the Roman Senate.