Sestertius - Trajan Decius (VIRTVS AVG S C; Virtus) (249-251) front Sestertius - Trajan Decius (VIRTVS AVG S C; Virtus) (249-251) back
Sestertius - Trajan Decius (VIRTVS AVG S C; Virtus) (249-251) photo
© Münzsammlung des Seminars für Alte Geschichte, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 DE)

Sestertius - Trajan Decius VIRTVS AVG S C; Virtus

 
Bronze 17.2 g 28.5 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
17.2 g
Diameter
28.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#282722
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Virtus, helmeted, half-draped, seated left on cuirass, holding branch in right hand and spear in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VIRTVS AVG S C

Translation:
Virtus Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
Courage of the emperor. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 16.28–18.58 g;
Diameter varies: 25–30 mm;

Example of this type:
Münzsammlung des Seminars für Alte Geschichte, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg

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 Virtus, which represents the virtue and moral excellence that the Roman Empire aimed to uphold. The coin's design was meant to promote the idea that the Roman Empire was a virtuous and just society, and that its leaders were chosen for their moral character and wisdom.