© Münzsammlung des Seminars für Alte Geschichte, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 DE)
© Münzsammlung des Seminars für Alte Geschichte, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 DE)
Sestertius - Marcus Aurelius VIRTVS AVG IMP X COS III P P S C; Virtus
| Bronze | 23.1 g | 32 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Marcus Aurelius (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus) (161-180) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 179-180 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 23.1 g |
| Diameter | 32 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#263963 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Virtus, seated right, holding spear and parazonium.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVS AVG IMP X COS III P P S C
Translation:
Virtus Augusti. Imperator Decimum, Consul Tertium, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum.
Courage of the emperor. Supreme commander (Imperator) for the tenth time, consul for the third time, father of the nation. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 20.34–25.05 g;Example of this type:
Münzsammlung des Seminars für Alte Geschichte, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg
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 were sweeping through the empire. Despite these challenges, the coin's image of Virtus represents the resilience and determination of the Roman people during this time.
