© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Septimius Severus P M TR P III COS II P P S C; Fortuna
| Bronze | 21 g | 29 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Septimius Severus (Lucius Septimius Severus) (193-211) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 195-196 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 21 g |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#270132 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Fortuna, draped, standing left, holding rudder set on globe in right hand and cornucopiae in left hand; sometimes at feet, left, wheel.
Script: Latin
Lettering: P M TR P III COS II P P S C
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Tertia, Consul Secundum, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum.
High priest, holder of tribunician power for the third time, consul for the second time, father of the nation. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 18.97–22.97 g;Diameter varies: 28–30 mm;
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 an image of Fortuna, the Roman goddess of luck and prosperity, on one side, while the other side bears the image of Emperor Septimius Severus. This coin was minted during a time of significant political and economic change in the Roman Empire, and the image of Fortuna may have been included to convey the idea of good fortune and prosperity under the leadership of Severus. Additionally, the use of bronze as the material for the coin was a common practice during this time period, as it was a more affordable and accessible alternative to precious metals like gold and silver.
