Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius (TR POT III COS II S C; Virtus) (148-149) front Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius (TR POT III COS II S C; Virtus) (148-149) back
Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius (TR POT III COS II S C; Virtus) (148-149) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius TR POT III COS II S C; Virtus

 
Bronze 18.2 g -
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Antoninus Pius (Titus Aelius Hadrianus Antoninus Pius) (138-161)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
148-149
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
18.2 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#261834
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Virtus, seated left, holding parazonium and spear.

Script: Latin

Lettering: TR POT III COS II S C

Translation:
Tribunicia Potestate Tertia, Consul Secundum. Senatus Consultum.
Holder of tribunician power for the third time, consul for the second 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, making Virtus' representation particularly poignant.