© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Sestertius - Vespasian Head; VICTORIA AVGVSTI S C starting high right; Victory
71 year| Bronze | 28.4 g | 35 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 | 28.4 g |
| Diameter | 35 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#249020 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Victory standing right, resting left foot on helmet, inscribing OB CIV SERV on shield attached to palm-tree.
Legend starts high right.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VICTORIA AVGVSTI S C
Unabridged legend: Victoria Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
Translation: Victory of the emperor. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 27.31–29.47 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 in Roman coinage, particularly 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 bring peace to the territories it ruled. The use of Victory on coins was also seen as a way to promote the idea of Roman supremacy and to reinforce the message that the Roman Empire was the greatest power in the world.
