Numismatic

Roman Empire Double Denarius Otacilia Severa (244-49 AD) VF NGC

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This silver double denarius, minted between 244 and 249 AD, offers a tangible connection to the complex political and religious landscape of the third-century Roman Empire. The obverse of the coin features the detailed bust of Empress Otacilia Severa, wife of Emperor Philip. On the reverse, ancient engravers depicted various Greek deities alongside symbols representing key political, military, and religious principles of the era. Otacilia Severa and her husband occupy a unique place in imperial history, as they are widely regarded as the first imperial couple to show tolerance toward the early Christian faith. In a notable act of intervention, the empress stepped in to protect Saint Babylas, the Bishop of Antioch, from facing persecution. Her family's reign came to a sudden and violent end in August 249 AD when her husband died during a battle. Shortly after his demise, the Praetorian Guard assassinated their young son. Having survived both her husband and her child, Otacilia Severa spent her remaining years living quietly in obscurity. This certified Very Fine silver coin preserves the memory of her brief, influential presence on the Roman throne.