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

Sestertius - Vespasian S C; Mars

71 year
Bronze 25.8 g 33 mm
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
25.8 g
Diameter
33 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#249004
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Mars advancing right, holding spear and trophy.

Script: Latin

Lettering: S C

Translation:
Senatus Consultum.
Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 22.32–28.03 g;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Sestertius - Vespasian (S C; Mars) (71) coin is that it features a depiction of Mars, the Roman god of war, on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Vespasian (AD 69-79). This coin was minted during a time of relative peace and stability in the Roman Empire, and the image of Mars may have been intended to symbolize the power and strength of the Roman military.