© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius IMP VI COS III S C; Virtus
| Bronze | 34.5 g | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 172-173 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 34.5 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#263773 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Virtus, standing right, holding spear in right hand and resting left hand on shield.
Script: Latin
Lettering: IMP VI COS III S C
Translation:
Imperator Sextum, Consul Tertium. Senatus Consultum.
Supreme commander (Imperator) for the sixth time, consul for the third time. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Example of this type:Trustees of the British Museum
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Sestertius coin features an image of Marcus Aurelius on one side and the personification of Virtus (Virtue) on the other. Virtus is depicted as a female figure holding a spear and shield, symbolizing the strength and courage of the Roman Empire during Marcus Aurelius' reign. This coin was minted during a time when Rome was facing numerous challenges, including wars with Germanic tribes and plagues that swept through the empire. Despite these challenges, the coinage of Marcus Aurelius, including the Sestertius, remained consistent in its high quality and artistic style, reflecting the enduring values of the Roman Empire.
