Sesterce
The sesterce (Latin sestertius, originally semis tertius = ‘two and a half’) is an important coin from ancient Rome and plays a central role in numismatics for understanding Roman monetary history and its social symbolism. Originally introduced as a silver coin, the sesterce developed over the centuries into a large-format bronze coin that was used for representational purposes, particularly by the Roman emperors.
The origin of the sesterce lies in the early Roman Republic around 211 BC, where it was first minted as a small silver coin with a value of two and a half asses (as = Roman base coin made of bronze). This basis of calculation also explains its name. In this early phase, however, the sesterce was more of a unit of account and less a common means of payment in circulation.
With the currency reform under Augustus around 23 BC, the sesterce took on its classic form as a large bronze coin with a diameter of about 25–35 mm and a weight of around 25–28 grams. Its value remained at 2.5 asses or a quarter of a denarius. In the Roman coin hierarchy, the sesterce thus became an important intermediate unit and was widely used in everyday transactions, especially for medium-sized purchases such as food, clothing or services.
The sesterce gained great importance during the Imperial period (1st to 3rd century AD) – not only economically, but also propagandistically. The reverse sides of the sestertii were elaborately designed and served as vehicles for political messages: images of goddesses of victory, triumphal processions, buildings, gods or personified virtues such as Pax, Fides or Virtus symbolised the power and achievements of the respective emperor. Imperial portraits were also depicted on the obverse with great attention to detail, making the sestertius a valuable object for historians and numismatists.
Due to inflation and the declining metal content of other denominations, the sestertius remained a stable coin for a long time. It was not until the late 3rd century AD that it gradually lost its importance due to profound economic crises and coin devaluation, eventually disappearing from circulation. In later times, it was only used as a unit of account.
In numismatics, the sesterce is of great interest today, particularly because of its detailed coin design and historical context. Collectors particularly value well-preserved coins with rare reverse motifs or portraits of rare emperors and empresses. Thanks to its size and design, the sesterce is one of the most artistic coins in Roman numismatics and offers valuable insights into Roman propaganda, economy and society.