Severus Alexander, BI Denarius, Contemporary Imitation of Rome Mint Issue, 228-231 AD – RRRR

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Description

Roman Imperial, Severus Alexander, 222-235 AD, BI Denarius (billon, 3.31g, 17.8mm), Contemporary Imitation of Rome mint issue, 228-231 AD
Obv:  IMP C M AVR SEV ALEXAND AVG; laureate and draped bust to right
Rev: PERPETVITATI AVG; Perpetuitas (or Securitas) standing facing, head to left leaning on column, holding globe and transverse sceptre
Ref: cf. RIC 169 ( imitation) Rarity/Choice: Very Rare, EF (stunning strike for this type)
Note: Severus Alexander, born Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander, was Roman Emperor from AD 222 to 235. Ascending the throne at a young age after the assassination of his cousin Elagabalus, Severus Alexander’s reign was marked by attempts to restore stability and traditional Roman values after the chaotic rule of his predecessor. His rule is often characterized by efforts to maintain peace through diplomacy rather than military force, but his reliance on advisors and the influence of his mother, Julia Mamaea, made him appear weak to the military, ultimately leading to his downfall and assassination by his own troops in AD 235. These counterfeit coins were used in trade and often circulated alongside genuine Roman currency, especially in border regions where Roman influence was strong but direct control was weaker. When counterfeit coins were discovered in the Roman Empire, the consequences for those responsible could be severe, particularly if they were caught within Roman-controlled territories. Counterfeiting was considered a serious crime because it undermined the stability of the economy and the authority of the state. While tribal imitations of coins were sometimes tolerated or overlooked in frontier regions where Roman control was weaker, blatant attempts to deceive through counterfeiting, especially if discovered within the core of the empire, were met with significant consequences. The obverse features a laureate and draped bust of Severus Alexander facing right. The laurel wreath is a symbol of victory and divine favor, while the drapery represents the emperor’s dignity and role as a statesman. This portrayal emphasizes his youth and idealized image as a capable and virtuous ruler. The reverse depicts a standing female figure, likely Perpetuitas or Securitas, facing forward with her head turned to the left, leaning on a column. She holds a globe in her right hand and a transverse scepter in her left. The globe symbolizes universal power and dominion, while the scepter represents authority. The column she leans on signifies support and stability, aligning with the theme of enduring rule.

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