© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Sestertius - Vespasian SALVS AVGVSTA S C; Salus
| Bronze | 26.3 g | 34 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Vespasian (Titus Flavius Vespasianus) (69-79) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 72-73 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 26.3 g |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#249288 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Salus seated left, holding patera and sceptre.
Script: Latin
Lettering: SALVS AVGVSTA S C
Translation:
Salus Augusta. Senatus Consultum.
The venerable health. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 25.36–27.14 g;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 Salus, who was the patron deity of the Roman Empire during the reign of Vespasian. She is depicted standing, holding a patera (a ritual offering dish) in her right hand and a snake in her left. The snake symbolized the healing powers of the goddess and was also associated with the Roman emperor's role as a healer and protector of his people. This image of Salus was meant to convey Vespasian's message of restoring peace and prosperity to the Roman Empire after a period of civil war and strife.
