Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius (TR P XVIII IMP II COS III S C; Mars) (163-164) front Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius (TR P XVIII IMP II COS III S C; Mars) (163-164) back
Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius (TR P XVIII IMP II COS III S C; Mars) (163-164) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius TR P XVIII IMP II COS III S C; Mars

 
Bronze 24.8 g -
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
24.8 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#263555
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Mars, helmeted, naked except for cloak flying behind, advancing right, holding spear in right hand and trophy over left shoulder in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: TR P XVIII IMP II COS III S C

Translation:
Tribunicia Potestate Octava Decima, Imperator Secundum, Consul Tertium. Senatus Consultum.
Holder of tribunician power for the 18th time, supreme commander (Imperator) for the second 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

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a depiction of the Roman god of war, Mars, on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Marcus Aurelius. This coin was minted during a time when the Roman Empire was at the height of its power and influence, and the image of Mars was meant to symbolize the empire's military prowess and strength.