Severus Alexander, AE Sestertius, Rome Mint, 231 AD – Annona

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Description

Roman Imperial, Severus Alexander, 222-235 AD, AE Sestertius (bronze, 18.13g, 30.3mm), Rome Mint, 231 AD
Obv: IMP SEV ALE-XANDER AVG, laureate bust of Severus Alexander right, draped on far shoulder
Rev: ANNONA AVGVSTI; Annona standing left, holding grain ears and anchor; modius at her feet; S – C across lower fields
Ref:  RIC IV 549; BMCRE 678 Rarity/Choice: Common to Scarce, aEF (oval-shaped flan with a crack on the lower part as a result of a sharp strike, otherwise beautifully struck with high relief and a lovely dark brown patina)
Note: Severus Alexander was a Roman emperor who ruled from 222 to 235 AD. He was the last emperor of the Severan dynasty and his reign was marked by efforts to restore stability and implement reforms after the chaotic rule of his predecessor, Elagabalus. Severus Alexander’s rule included a focus on military discipline, economic management, and legal reforms.  “IMP SEV ALE-XANDER AVG” stands for “Imperator Severus Alexander Augustus,” emphasizing his status as emperor. Depiction: The obverse features a laureate bust of Severus Alexander facing right, with slight drapery on his left shoulder. The laurel wreath signifies victory and triumph, while the drapery indicates his imperial dignity.  “ANNONA AVGVSTI” translates to “The Provision of the Emperor,” emphasizing the importance of grain supply to the Roman populace. Depiction: The reverse shows Annona, the personification of the grain supply, standing left. She holds grain ears in her right hand and an anchor in her left hand, with a modius (a grain measure) at her feet on the left. The grain ears represent agricultural abundance, the anchor symbolizes the stability and security of food supply via maritime trade, and the modius reinforces the theme of sustenance. Field Inscription: “S C” (Senatus Consulto) indicates that the coin was minted by decree of the Senate. Severus Alexander’s reign was a time of attempted reforms and consolidation of power. After the turmoil of previous emperors, he sought to stabilize the empire through economic and military measures. One of his significant concerns was ensuring the grain supply to Rome, which was crucial for maintaining public order and the support of the populace. This Sestertius reflects these efforts through its depiction of Annona and the emphasis on agricultural abundance and stability.

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