Sestertius - Vespasian (AVGVSTI VICTORIA S C; Victory) (71) front Sestertius - Vespasian (AVGVSTI VICTORIA S C; Victory) (71) back
Sestertius - Vespasian (AVGVSTI VICTORIA S C; Victory) (71) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Sestertius - Vespasian AVGVSTI VICTORIA S C; Victory

71 year
Bronze 14.9 g -
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Vespasian (Titus Flavius Vespasianus) (69-79)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
71
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
14.9 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#249115
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Victory standing right, resting left foot on helmet, inscribing OB CIVES SERV on shield attached to palm-tree.

Script: Latin

Lettering: AVGVSTI VICTORIA S C

Translation:
Augusti Victoria, Senatus Consultum.
Victory of the emperor (Augustus). Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 3.28–26.5 g;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Victory (Victoria) on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Vespasian. The image of Victory was meant to symbolize the Roman Empire's military prowess and its ability to conquer and subdue other nations. The use of Victory on coins was also seen as a way to promote the idea of Roman supremacy and to reinforce the notion that the Roman Empire was the dominant power in the ancient world.