Sestertius - Hostilian as Caesar (PRINC IVVENT S C; Apollo) (251) front Sestertius - Hostilian as Caesar (PRINC IVVENT S C; Apollo) (251) back
Sestertius - Hostilian as Caesar (PRINC IVVENT S C; Apollo) (251) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Hostilian as Caesar PRINC IVVENT S C; Apollo

251 year
Bronze 14.7 g 27 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Decius (Gaius Messius Quintus Traianus Decius) (249-251)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
251
Value
Sestertius (⅛)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
14.7 g
Diameter
27 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#282932
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Apollo, half-draped, seated left, holding branch in right hand and resting elbow on lyre.

Script: Latin

Lettering: PRINC IVVENT S C

Translation:
Principes Juventutis. Senatus Consultum.
Prince of the youth. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 14.09–15.15 g;
Diameter varies: 26–27.5 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 Apollo on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during this period. The use of Apollo's image was likely intended to promote the idea of the Roman Empire as a civilized and cultured entity, and to emphasize the connection between the Roman state and the gods.