Sestertius - Trajan Decius (GENIVS EXERCITVS ILLVRICIANI S C; Genius) (249-251) front Sestertius - Trajan Decius (GENIVS EXERCITVS ILLVRICIANI S C; Genius) (249-251) back
Sestertius - Trajan Decius (GENIVS EXERCITVS ILLVRICIANI S C; Genius) (249-251) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Trajan Decius GENIVS EXERCITVS ILLVRICIANI S C; Genius

 
Bronze 15 g 27 mm
Description
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
15 g
Diameter
27 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#282759
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

Mass varies: 13.92–16.17 g;
Diameter varies: 25–29 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 the Roman goddess Genius, who is depicted standing and holding a scepter and a patera, which is a ritual offering dish. The image of Genius on this coin is significant because it represents the idea of Roman military power and expansion, as well as the divine protection and guidance of the Roman state. The coin was minted during the reign of Emperor Trajan Decius, who ruled from 249 to 251 AD and was known for his military campaigns against the barbarian tribes in the Roman Empire's northern territories.