Denarius - Septimius Severus (HERCVLI DEFENS; Hercules) (196-197) front Denarius - Septimius Severus (HERCVLI DEFENS; Hercules) (196-197) back
Denarius - Septimius Severus (HERCVLI DEFENS; Hercules) (196-197) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Septimius Severus HERCVLI DEFENS; Hercules

 
Silver 2.8 g 17 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Septimius Severus (Lucius Septimius Severus) (193-211)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
196-197
Value
1 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.8 g
Diameter
17 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#269131
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Hercules, naked, lion-skin draped over left arm, standing right, holding club set on ground in right hand and bow in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: HERCVLI DEFENS

Translation:
Herculi Defensor.
Hercules, the defender.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.3386–3.19 g;
Diameter varies: 16.57–17.01 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 Hercules on one side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Septimius Severus. Hercules was considered a symbol of strength and power, and his image was often used to promote the emperor's military victories and accomplishments.