Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius (IMP VII COS III S C; Mars) (174-175) front Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius (IMP VII COS III S C; Mars) (174-175) back
Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius (IMP VII COS III S C; Mars) (174-175) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius IMP VII COS III S C; Mars

 
Bronze 25.6 g 31.5 mm
Description
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
25.6 g
Diameter
31.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#263832
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Mars, helmeted, in military dress, running left, holding Victory, standing left, holding wreath in right hand and palm in left, on extended right hand and trophy in left hand, supported on left shoulder.

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

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a depiction of Mars, the Roman god of war, on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Marcus Aurelius. This suggests that the coin was likely used to promote the emperor's military campaigns and victories.