© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Julia Mamaea VENERI FELICI S C; Venus and Cupid
| Bronze | 18.5 g | 29 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Severus Alexander (Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander) (222-235) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 222-235 |
| Value | Sestertius (⅛) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 18.5 g |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#279882 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 93% |
Reverse
Venus, draped, standing right, holding sceptre in right hand and Cupid in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VENERI FELICI S C
Translation:
Veneri Felici. Senatus Consultum.
To Venus, the happy. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 13.33–27.43 g;Diameter varies: 24–32 mm;
Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Sestertius coin featuring Julia Mamaea and her son, Emperor Alexander Severus, is notable for its depiction of Venus and Cupid on the reverse side. This imagery was meant to emphasize the theme of "Veneri Felici" or "Happy Venus," which was a propaganda campaign initiated by Julia Mamaea to promote the idea of a harmonious and prosperous Roman Empire under her son's rule. The coin's design, therefore, serves as a representation of the imperial family's desire to associate themselves with the ideals of love, fertility, and prosperity.
