AS118093. Aes grave (cast) semis, Crawford 14/2; Sydenham 9; Vecchi ICC 26; HN Italy 269; Thurlow-Vecchi pl. 24, 2; Haeberlin pl. 38, 9; BMC Italy p. 48, 4; SRCV I -, Russo RBW -, F, dark patina, some corrosion/pitting, 155.9g, 55.1mm, 0^o, Rome mint, head of Minerva left, wearing a crested Corinthian helmet; horizontal S (mark of value) below; reverse bare head of Venus left, horizontal S (mark of value) below; huge 155.9g, 55.1mm early Roman bronze; very rare

 

At the time this coin was struck, Rome was focused on consolidating its position in Italy and warding off external threats. The Republic grappled with tensions among its Latin allies and incursions from the Etruscans and Samnites. By stabilizing its borders, reforming the legions, and tactical alliances, Rome accelerated its domination of central Italy, laying the groundwork for its eventual ascendancy as a Mediterranean power.