Sestertius - Lucius Verus VICT AVG TR POT VI IMP III COS II S C, Victory
| Émetteur | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Année | 165-166 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | 1 Sestertius = 1/4 Denarius |
| Devise | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Poids | 20.2 g |
| Diamètre | 32 mm |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | RIC III#1454, OCRE#ric.3.m_aur.1454 |
| Description de l’avers | Head of Lucius Verus, laureate, right. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | Latin |
| Légende de l’avers |
L VERVS AVG ARM PARTH MAX (Translation: Lucius Verus Augustus, Armeniacus, Parthicus Maximus. Lucius Verus, emperor (Augustus), conqueror of the Armenians, great conqueror of the Parthians.) |
| Description du revers | Victory, towered, winged, draped, flying left, holding diadem in extended hands. |
| Écriture du revers | Latin |
| Légende du revers |
VICT AVG TR POT VI IMP III COS II S C (Translation: Victoria Augusti. Tribunicia Potestate Sexta, Imperator Tertium, Consul Secundum. Senatus Consultum. Victory of the emperor (Augustus). Holder of tribunician power for the sixth time, supreme commander (Imperator) for the third time, consul for the second time. Decree of the senate.) |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (165-166) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 1652954110 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
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Historical Context: This Sestertius of Lucius Verus, struck 165-166 AD, marks a pivotal moment during his co-reign with Marcus Aurelius. The VICT AVG (Victoria Augusti) inscription and Victory reverse celebrate the successful conclusion of the Parthian War (161-166 AD), a major military triumph led by Verus. His titulature, TR POT VI IMP III COS II, precisely dates the coin. This issue served as crucial imperial propaganda, solidifying Verus's image as a victorious general and affirming Roman military supremacy.
Artistry: The artistic style reflects the Antonine period, blending classical influences with evolving realism in imperial portraiture. Though engravers are unnamed, the coin demonstrates the high standards of the Rome mint. The obverse features a laureate bust of Lucius Verus, conveying imperial authority. The reverse depicts Victory advancing left, holding a wreath and palm—a powerful allegory of recent military successes. The prominent SC confirms senatorial authorization for this bronze coinage.
Technical/Grading: This substantial bronze Sestertius, weighing 20.2 grams and measuring 32 mm, offered a broad canvas for detailed engraving. High-points for wear on the obverse include the laureate wreath, nose, and hair. On the reverse, Victory’s wings, wreath, and drapery folds are critical. A strong strike ensures sharp definition. Variations in strike quality, centering, and planchet condition are common for this large denomination, influencing its overall preservation and numismatic grade.