Sestertius - Lucius Verus (TR P IIII IMP II COS II S C; Mars) (163-164) front Sestertius - Lucius Verus (TR P IIII IMP II COS II S C; Mars) (163-164) back
Sestertius - Lucius Verus (TR P IIII IMP II COS II S C; Mars) (163-164) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Lucius Verus TR P IIII IMP II COS II S C; Mars

 
Bronze 23.2 g 30.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
163-164
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
23.2 g
Diameter
30.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#264092
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Mars, helmeted, walking right, carrying spear in right hand and trophy in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: TR P IIII IMP II COS II S C

Translation:
Tribunicia Potestate Quarta, Imperator Secundum, Consul Secundum. Senatus Consultum.
Holder of tribunician power for the fourth time, supreme commander (Imperator) for the second time, consul for the second time. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 21.173–24.89 g;
Diameter varies: 29–32.7 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Sestertius coin features an image of Mars, the Roman god of war, on its reverse side. This is fitting, as Lucius Verus, the emperor depicted on the obverse side, was known for his military campaigns against the Parthian Empire. In fact, the coin was likely issued to commemorate Lucius Verus' victories in the Roman-Parthian War, which took place from 161 to 166 AD.