© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Vitellius S C; Mars
69 year| Bronze | 25.3 g | 35.5 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 | 25.3 g |
| Diameter | 35.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#244226 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Mars, helmeted, wearing only cloak, advancing right, holding spear in right hand and trophy on left shoulder
Script: Latin
Lettering: S C
Translation:
Senatus Consultum
Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 23.54–26.63 g;Diameter varies: 35–36 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Sestertius - Vitellius (S C; Mars) (69) coin is that it features a unique combination of imagery and symbolism. On one side, it depicts the Roman god of war, Mars, while on the other side, it shows an image of Vitellius, the Roman emperor who ruled from 69 AD. This combination of a deity and a human ruler was a common feature of Roman coins during this period, but the specific pairing of Mars and Vitellius on this coin makes it stand out. Additionally, the fact that it was made of bronze and weighs 25.3 grams adds to its historical significance, as it provides insight into the metallurgical techniques and monetary systems of the Roman Empire during that time.
