As - Julia Mamaea (VENVS VITRIX S C; Venus) (222-235) front As - Julia Mamaea (VENVS VITRIX S C; Venus) (222-235) back
As - Julia Mamaea (VENVS VITRIX S C; Venus) (222-235) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

As - Julia Mamaea VENVS VITRIX S C; Venus

 
Bronze 10 g 25 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Severus Alexander (Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander) (222-235)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
222-235
Value
As (1⁄32)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
10 g
Diameter
25 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#279896
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Venus, draped, standing left, holding helmet in right hand and sceptre in left hand; at feet, shield.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VENVS VITRIX S C

Translation:
Venus Victrix. Senatus Consultum.
Venus Victorious. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 7.47–11.28 g;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Julia Mamaea coin is that it features a rare representation of the Roman goddess Venus on a Roman coin. Venus was not commonly depicted on Roman coins, especially during the reign of Julia Mamaea's son, Emperor Alexander Severus, who favored more traditional Roman deities. The inclusion of Venus on this coin may indicate the influence of Julia Mamaea's Syrian background, as Venus was an important deity in ancient Syrian religion.