© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Severus Alexander P M TR P VIII COS III P P S C; Mars and Virtus
229 year| Bronze | 20.6 g | 29.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Severus Alexander (Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander) (222-235) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 229 |
| Value | Sestertius (⅛) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 20.6 g |
| Diameter | 29.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#279592 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Mars (or Virtus), helmeted, in mililtary attire, standing left, foot on prow of ship, holding spear in right hand and parazonium in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: P M TR P VIII COS III P P S C
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Octava, Consul Tertium, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum.
High priest, holder of tribunician power for the eighth time, consul for the third time, father of the nation. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 11.8–26.271 g;Diameter varies: 27.5–32.12 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 a rare combination of two gods on its reverse side - Mars, the god of war, and Virtus, the personification of virtue and courage. This unique combination symbolizes the importance of military prowess and moral integrity during the reign of Severus Alexander.
