© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Septimius Severus P M TR P IIII COS II P P S C; Mars
| Bronze | 24.5 g | 31 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 | 24.5 g |
| Diameter | 31 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#270136 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Mars, helmeted, naked except for cloak over shoulders and chest, holding spear in right hand and resting left hand on oval shield; at feet, left, cuirass.
Script: Latin
Lettering: P M TR P IIII COS II P P S C
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Quarta, Consul Secundum, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum.
High priest, holder of tribunician power for the fourth time, consul for the second time, father of the nation. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 20.81–27.85 g;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. This is significant because Septimius Severus, the emperor depicted on the obverse side, was known for his military campaigns and conquests, and the inclusion of Mars on the coin may have been a way to highlight his martial prowess and reinforce his image as a strong and powerful leader.
