Sestertius - Julia Soaemias VENVS CAELESTIS S C; Venus
| Bronze | 23.3 g | 31 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Elagabalus (Sextus Varius Avitus Basianus) (218-222) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 218-222 |
| Value | Sestertius (⅛) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 23.3 g |
| Diameter | 31 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#277093 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Venus, draped, standing left, holding apple in extended right hand and sceptre in left hand; in field, star.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VENVS CAELESTIS S C
Translation:
Venus Caelestis. Senatus Consultum.
Heavenly Venus. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 19.4–31.14 g;Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty, on one side, and an image of Julia Soaemias, the mother of the Roman emperor Elagabalus, on the other side. This coin was minted during Elagabalus' reign, which was marked by controversial and unconventional religious practices, including the introduction of Eastern deities like Venus to the Roman pantheon. The coin's design may reflect the emperor's efforts to promote the cult of Venus and his mother's influence on his religious policies.
