Numismatic

Roman Silver Denarius Severus Alexander (222-235 AD) Ch-VF NGC

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During the third century, the Roman Empire was mirrored in its silver coinage. This denarius, minted during the reign of Emperor Severus Alexander between 222 and 235 AD, offers a direct look into the imperial portraiture of the era. Certified as Choice Very Fine, the coin has survived the centuries with its key design elements remarkably intact. On the obverse, the profile of the emperor is depicted wearing a laurel wreath. Surrounding this imperial likeness is the legible Latin inscription IMP C M AVR SEV ALEXAND AVG, which served to broadcast the ruler's authority and titles across the vast empire. The reverse imagery of these silver issues was known to vary, often celebrating different deities, virtues, or significant events of the period. Struck in silver with a weight of 0.14 ounces, the coin measures approximately 19 mm in diameter. Its compact size and precious metal content made it a cornerstone of daily commerce and military pay in the ancient Roman world, serving as a tangible testament to the administration of Severus Alexander.