© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Aureus - Septimius Severus VIRT AVG TR P COS; Virtus
| Gold | 7.3 g | 19.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Septimius Severus (Lucius Septimius Severus) (193-211) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 193-194 |
| Value | 1 Aureus = 25 Denarii |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 7.3 g |
| Diameter | 19.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#269055 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Virtus, helmeted, draped, standing left, holding Victory in extended right hand and spear, reversed, in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRT AVG TR P COS
Unabridged legend: Virtus Augusti. Tribunicia Potestate, Consul
Translation: Courage of the emperor. Holder of tribunician power, consul
Comment
Biaggi 1114; Mazzini 751.
Mass varies: 7.21–7.35 g;
Diameter varies: 19–20 mm;
Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman emperor Septimius Severus on one side, and the personification of the virtue Virtus on the other. Virtus was an important concept in ancient Roman culture, representing the qualities of courage, strength, and moral character that were highly valued in Roman society. The inclusion of this image on the coin highlights the importance of these virtues in the Roman Empire during the reign of Septimius Severus.
