Sestertius definitions
| Word backwards | suitretses |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun. |
| Syllabic division | ses-ter-ti-us |
| Plural | The plural of the word sestertius is sestertii. |
| Total letters | 10 |
| Vogais (3) | e,i,u |
| Consonants (3) | s,t,r |
Sestertius: An Overview
The sestertius was a large Roman coin that was commonly used in the ancient Roman Empire. It was one of the most valuable denominations in Roman currency and was used for significant transactions and payments. The sestertius was first introduced during the Roman Republic and continued to be minted well into the Roman Empire.
History of the Sestertius
The sestertius was originally made of silver but underwent various changes in its metal composition over time. During the Roman Republic, the sestertius was made of silver and was valued at two-and-a-half asses. However, as the Roman Empire expanded and faced economic challenges, the sestertius was gradually debased with the addition of base metals such as bronze and copper. By the 3rd century AD, the sestertius was primarily made of bronze and was a large, heavy coin.
Value and Usage
The sestertius was a valuable coin in Roman society and was commonly used for large transactions, such as paying taxes, purchasing goods, and funding public works projects. Wealthy Romans often used sestertii to display their wealth and power, as the coin's large size and weight made it impressive to handle and display.
Depiction and Inscriptions
Sestertii were often minted with the likenesses of Roman emperors and important figures on one side, while the reverse side depicted various scenes, symbols, or inscriptions. These designs often reflected the values, achievements, and propaganda of the ruling emperor or the Roman state.
Legacy of the Sestertius
Today, sestertii are valuable artifacts for historians, archaeologists, and collectors, providing valuable insights into Roman history, economics, and art. Many sestertii have survived to the present day, and they are highly sought after by numismatists and enthusiasts of ancient Roman culture.
Overall, the sestertius was a significant and influential coin in the ancient Roman world, playing a crucial role in the economy, society, and political life of the Roman Empire.
Sestertius Examples
- Ancient Roman emperors used sestertius coins for trade and transactions.
- Numismatists study and collect sestertius coins for their historical value.
- A rare sestertius minted during the reign of Nero was auctioned for a high price.
- The value of a sestertius varied depending on the emperor depicted on it.
- Some sestertius coins featured intricate designs and inscriptions.
- Archaeologists unearthed a hoard of sestertius coins buried in a Roman villa.
- A sestertius coin from the 1st century AD depicted the Roman goddess Minerva.
- Merchants in ancient Rome used sestertius coins to pay for goods and services.
- The sestertius was one of the largest Roman coins in circulation during the empire.
- Historians study the distribution of sestertius coins to understand Roman economy.