© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Trajan Decius GENIVS EXERCITVS ILLVRICIANI S C; Genius
| Bronze | 13.9 g | 28 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Decius (Gaius Messius Quintus Traianus Decius) (249-251) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 249-251 |
| Value | Sestertius (⅛) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 13.9 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#282712 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Genius, wearing polos on head, nude except for short cloak on shoulders, standing left, holding patera in right hand and cornucopiae in left hand; to right, standard.
Script: Latin
Lettering: GENIVS EXERCITVS ILLVRICIANI S C
Translation:
Genius Exercitus Illuriciani. Senatus Consultum.
To the genius (guardian spirit) of the Illyrian army. Decree of the senate.
Comment
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 emperor Trajan Decius, who ruled from 249 to 251 AD. During his reign, Decius implemented a number of significant military and political reforms, including the creation of a new military elite known as the "Exercitus Illyricianus," which is depicted on the coin's reverse side. This elite force was composed of soldiers recruited from the provinces of Illyricum (modern-day Albania and parts of Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina) and was tasked with protecting the empire's borders and maintaining order within its territories. The coin's design, therefore, serves as a visual representation of Decius' efforts to strengthen the Roman military and secure the empire's borders.
