© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Vitellius MARS VICTOR S C; Mars and Victory
69 year| Bronze | 29.1 g | 36 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Vitellius (Aulus Vitellius) (69) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 69 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarii |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 29.1 g |
| Diameter | 36 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#244216 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Mars, helmeted, in military dress, advancing left, holding Victory in right hand and trophy on left shoulder; parazonium at side
Script: Latin
Lettering: MARS VICTOR S C
Translation:
Mars Victor, Senatus Consultum
Mars, the victorious. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 25.58–33.7 g;Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique combination of symbols and imagery. On one side, it depicts Mars, the Roman god of war, standing next to Victory, holding a trophy and a shield. This represents the military power and victory of the Roman Empire during the reign of Vitellius. The other side of the coin features the Roman Emperor Vitellius himself, with the inscription "MARS VICTOR S C" which stands for "Mars, Victor, Senatus Consulto" or "Mars, Victor, by the decree of the Senate". This coin is a rare and valuable example of Roman coinage during the 1st century AD, and its imagery reflects the political and military climate of the time.
