Denarius - Severus Alexander (FIDES MILITVM; Fides) (228-231) front Denarius - Severus Alexander (FIDES MILITVM; Fides) (228-231) back
Denarius - Severus Alexander (FIDES MILITVM; Fides) (228-231) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Severus Alexander FIDES MILITVM; Fides

 
Silver 2.4 g 19 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Severus Alexander (Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander) (222-235)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
228-231
Value
Denarius (½)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.4 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#279218
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Fides, draped, standing right, holding vexillum in right hand and transverse standard in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: FIDES MILITVM

Translation:
Fides Militum.
Loyalty of the soldiers.

Comment

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Denarius - Severus Alexander (FIDES MILITVM; Fides) coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Fides (Fidelity) on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the Severan dynasty. Fides was revered as a symbol of loyalty, honesty, and trustworthiness, and her presence on the coin may have been intended to promote these values among the Roman people. Additionally, the coin's silver content and relatively small weight suggest that it may have been used for everyday transactions and commerce, making it a practical and accessible form of currency for the average Roman citizen.