Pupienus – RARE Sestertius, Rome, AD 238 – VICTORIA AVGG – Certificate of Authenticity

Thorough examination under 10× magnification and raking light revealing all markers of an authentic Roman hammer strike. Characteristic 238 style with elongated head, almond-shaped ear, striated beard and paludamentum with broken folds. Complete absence of casting indicators, visible beading, perceptible metal flows confirming authenticity.

Legend IMP CAES M CLOD PVPIENVS AVG surrounding a laureate, draped and cuirassed bust facing right. Mature and energetic portrait showing tight laurel wreath, striated hair, short beard locks and paludamentum with perfectly visible angular folds. Solid centering with beading visible over a large portion of the circumference.

Legend VICTORIA AVGG accompanying Victory standing facing, head turned left, holding a crown in right hand and palm in left hand. Letters S-C appear distinctly in the field. The slender silhouette and attributes remain perfectly legible despite circulation wear.

Flan and edge

31mm flan well in hand showing very slight localized edge clipping and micro-impacts characteristic of ancient striking. Flexible striking planes typical of Roman production from this period.

Sestertius in orichalcum (copper-zinc alloy) weighing 21.50 grams with 31mm diameter. Homogeneous chocolate-brown patina with olive nuances on high points and cabinet velvet in places. Minor stabilized verdigris concretions consistent with ancient burial.

Pupienus was elevated by the Senate during the year 238, sharing power with Balbinus against the threat of Maximinus Thrax. The VICTORIA AVGG type proclaims the hoped-for victory of the two Augusti and reaffirms the alliance of the Senate (S-C) with military authority. The brevity of the reign explains the relative rarity of issues.

Specimen of high documentary value combining rarity of issue, exceptional legibility of types and attractive ancient patina. First-rate coin for the study of political history of 238 and senatorial coinage, attractive for both advanced collectors and enthusiasts of imperial iconography.

Provenance: attested private collection. Specimen accompanied by certificate of authenticity and complete expertise document guaranteeing the authenticity and quality of this rare Roman coin.