Sestertius - Hadrian // VOTA PVBLICA S C
| Orichalcum | 25 g | 32.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Hadrian (Publius Aelius Hadrianus) (117-138) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 133-135 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Orichalcum |
| Weight | 25 g |
| Diameter | 32.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#256614 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hadrian, standing left, holding patera; to left, victimarius preparing to strike bull over altar; behind victimarius, attendant, flute player, and camillus.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
// VOTA PVBLICA
S C
Translation:
Vota Publica. Senatus Consultum.
The vows (prayers) of the public. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that the metal used to make it, orichalcum, is a mysterious and rare alloy that was highly valued in ancient times. The exact composition of orichalcum is unknown, but it is believed to be a mixture of gold, silver, and other metals. The use of orichalcum in the production of coins was reserved for special occasions, such as the issuance of commemorative coins, and it was not commonly used in everyday coinage. The fact that this coin was made of orichalcum suggests that it was a special issue coin, possibly minted to commemorate a significant event or to honor a particular individual.
