Aureus - Severus Alexander SPES PVBLICA; Spes
| Gold | - | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Severus Alexander (Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander) (222-235) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 231-235 |
| Value | Aureus (25⁄2) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#279306 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Spes, draped, walking left, holding flower in right hand and raising skirt with left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: SPES PVBLICA
Translation:
Spes Publica.
Hope of the public.
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Aureus - Severus Alexander coin was minted during the reign of Emperor Severus Alexander (231-235 AD), and it features an image of the goddess Spes (Latin for "hope") on the reverse side. This coin was significant because it marked a shift in Roman currency, as it was the first time that a gold coin had been minted with a value of 25 silver denarii, rather than the traditional 24 denarii. This change in value was a result of the economic reforms implemented by Severus Alexander, who aimed to stabilize the Roman economy and combat inflation. The coin's design and value reflect the emperor's efforts to promote hope and prosperity throughout the empire.
