222-235AD Severus Alexander Silver Denarius – Choice EF
$295.00
Choice Extremely Fine Denarius of Severus Alexander
The reverse depicts Virtus standing right resting on spear and shield. Ancient Rome held Virtus as a specific virtue, embodying valor, masculinity, excellence, courage, character, and worth, all regarded as masculine strengths. Roman emperors often emphasized this virtue, even personifying it as a deity—Virtus.
This item exemplifies beauty, showcasing lustrous metal with copper hues, while being graded as an exceptional choice example in Extremely Fine condition.
1 in stock
Description
Origin:Roman Empire
Region:Rome, Italy
Denomination:Denarius
Composition:Silver
Date:Struck 225 A.D.
Obverse:IMP C M AVR SEV ALEXAND AVG, laureate and draped bust to right
Reverse:VIRTVS AVG, Virtus standing right resting on spear and shield
Diameter & Weight:21mm; 3.57g
Grade:Choice Extremely Fine, Lustrous metal with copper hues
Provenance:Ex. IS Wright, Melbourne, Inventory
References:Sear.7934, RIC 254, RSC 546
Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander
Early Life
Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander known today by his shorter title Severus Alexander was Roman Emperor reigned from 222-235 A.D.
Born on 1 October 208 in Arca Caesarea, Phoenicia modern-day Lebanon, Alexander gained sole power at the of 14 making him the youngest Roman Emperor. He took the position after his cousin Elagabalus was assassinated, making him the last emperor from the Severan Dynasty
There is limited information available about Alexander’s parents. However, based on accounts and coins that were created in honour, it is known that he was the grandson of Julia Mamaea, a Christian Syrian noblewoman who was a member of the Severan Dynasty. During the short time that he was in power, Alexander worked to stabilize the Roman Empire during a time of crisis. Unlike his predecessor, he took a moderate and conciliatory approach, focusing on diplomacy and financial responsibility.
Assassinated
Alexander, attempted to broker peace with several Germanic and Persian tribes, but the military establishment criticized his efforts and saw him as weak. Despite his attempts, the empire continued to face external pressures. Unfortunately, in 235 AD, his troops assassinated him during a military mutiny near Mainz, marking the end of the Severan dynasty. Severus Alexander’s reign exemplifies the challenges of balancing external threats with internal dissent during that era. His commitment to diplomacy was admirable, but it ultimately faced resistance from a military culture that preferred decisive and forceful leadership. The circumstances surrounding his death illustrate the complex power dynamics that characterized the later stages of the Roman Empire’s decline.
This is a fantastic opportunity to obtain a mint state Denarius of Severus Alexander!
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