© Bertolami Fine Arts
© Bertolami Fine Arts
Sestertius - Vespasian SPES AVGVSTA S C; Spes
71 year| Bronze | 26.3 g | 34.5 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 | 26.3 g |
| Diameter | 34.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#249102 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Spes standing left, handing flower to three Roman soldiers.
Script: Latin
Lettering: SPES AVGVSTA S C
Translation:
Spes Augusta. Senatus Consultum.
Venerable hope. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 24.69–27.37 g;Diameter varies: 34–35 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Sestertius - Vespasian (SPES AVGVSTA S C; Spes) coin is that it features the goddess Spes (Latin for "hope") on the reverse side, which was a common motif in Roman coinage during the reign of Vespasian (AD 69-79). The image of Spes was meant to convey the idea of hope and prosperity for the Roman people, and it was often depicted with a flower or a torch, symbolizing the light and growth that comes with hope. This coin, in particular, is a rare and valuable example of this type of coinage, making it a highly sought-after collector's item among numismatists.
