© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Severus Alexander SPES PVBLICA S C; Spes
| Bronze | 19.1 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 |
| Years | 231-235 |
| Value | Sestertius (⅛) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 19.1 g |
| Diameter | 29.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#279826 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 93% |
Reverse
Spes, draped, walking left, holding flower in right hand and raising skirt with left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: SPES PVBLICA S C
Translation:
Spes Publica. Senatus Consultum.
Hope of the public. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 12.54–30.36 g;Diameter varies: 25–32 mm;
Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Sestertius coin features an image of the Roman goddess Spes (meaning "hope" in Latin) on the reverse side, which is fitting since the coin was issued during a time of great turmoil and uncertainty in the Roman Empire. Despite the challenges faced by Severus Alexander during his reign, including constant threats from external enemies and internal power struggles, the coinage issued during his reign, like this Sestertius, continued to promote the ideals of Roman prosperity and stability.
