© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Sestertius - Vespasian FORTVNAE REDVCI S C; Fortuna
71 year| Bronze | 26.2 g | 33.5 mm |
| 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 | 26.2 g |
| Diameter | 33.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#248962 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Fortuna, draped, standing left, holding branch and rudder set on globe in right hand and cornucopiae in left.
Script: Latin
Lettering: FORTVNAE REDVCI S C
Translation:
Fortunae Reduci. Senatus Consultum.
Returning fortune. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 24.93–27.63 g;Diameter varies: 33–34 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Fortuna, the Roman goddess of luck and prosperity, on one side, and Vespasian, the Roman emperor, on the other. This coin was minted during Vespasian's reign (69-79 AD) and was used as a means of spreading the emperor's image and message throughout the empire. The coin's design and imagery reflect the importance of Fortuna in Roman culture and the emperor's desire to associate himself with her virtues.
