© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius IMP VII COS III S C; Fides
| Bronze | 26.3 g | 33 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 174-175 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 26.3 g |
| Diameter | 33 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#263844 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Fides, draped, standing left, holding caduceus in right hand and standard.
Script: Latin
Lettering: IMP VII COS III S C
Translation:
Imperator Septimum, Consul Tertium. Senatus Consultum.
Supreme commander (Imperator) for the seventh time, consul for the third time. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 25.41–27.21 g;Example of this type:
Trustees of the British Museum
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Fides (Faith) on the reverse, which was a common motif on coins during the reign of Marcus Aurelius. Fides was an important symbol of the Roman state and was often depicted holding a pledge or a scroll, representing the idea of loyalty and fidelity to the state and its leaders. The inclusion of Fides on this coin may have been a way to emphasize the importance of loyalty and trust in the Roman Empire during a time of political and military turmoil.
