Phoenicia, Tripolis, Severus Alexander, as Ceaser, AE Year = 212 – RR

$170.00

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SKU: G16.7 Categories: , , ,

Description

Roman Provencial, Phoenicia, Tripolis, Severus Alexander, as Ceaser, AE (bronze, 5.61g, 20.8mm), CY 533 = 2212 AD
Obv: Bare head right
Rev:Ā  Flaming altar of Zeus Hagios within tetrastyle temple; Helios and Selene flanking between columns
Ref:Ā  BMC 138 Rarity/Choice: Scarce, VF (probably repatinated, typical light roughness otherwise, lovely)
Note: This coin was minted in Tripolis, a city in Phoenicia, during the reign of Severus Alexander, who ruled as Caesar (junior emperor). The obverse side of the coin features a bare-headed bust of Severus Alexander facing right. This depiction represents Severus Alexander during his time as Caesar, before he became the senior emperor. On the reverse side, there is a depiction of a flaming altar of Zeus Hagios (Zeus the Holy) within a tetrastyle temple. The temple is depicted with four columns supporting a pediment. In the center of the temple, there is an altar with flames rising from it, representing the sacred fire. Flanking the altar and temple, there are depictions of Helios (the sun god) on the left and Selene (the moon goddess) on the right. These two celestial figures are often associated with religious ceremonies and divine blessings. During the reign of Severus Alexander, the Roman Empire experienced relative stability and prosperity. However, Severus Alexander faced challenges from internal dissent and external threats. This coin reflects the religious and cultural significance of the region of Phoenicia, with its depiction of a temple and sacred altar dedicated to Zeus Hagios. The presence of Helios and Selene emphasizes the importance of divine protection and cosmic order.
Overall, this coin provides valuable historical and artistic insights into the religious practices and iconography of Phoenicia during the Roman period. It also serves as a testament to the influence of Severus Alexander’s reign in the region.