Denarius - Severus Alexander (PROVIDENTIA AVG; Providentia) (231-235) front Denarius - Severus Alexander (PROVIDENTIA AVG; Providentia) (231-235) back
Denarius - Severus Alexander (PROVIDENTIA AVG; Providentia) (231-235) photo
© Institute of Classics/University of Graz

Denarius - Severus Alexander PROVIDENTIA AVG; Providentia

 
Silver 2.9 g 20 mm
Description
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
Denarius (½)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.9 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#279302
Rarity index
94%

Reverse

Providentia, draped, standing front, head left, holding corn-ears in right hand and anchor in left hand; on ground, modius.

Script: Latin

Lettering: PROVIDENTIA AVG

Unabridged legend: Providentia Augusti.

Translation: Providence of the emperor.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.63–3.11 g;

Example of this type:
Institute of Classics/University of Graz

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 goddess Providentia on the reverse side, which represents the divine protection and guidance of the Roman Empire. This coin was minted during the reign of Emperor Severus Alexander, who ruled from 231 to 235 AD, and it was used as a standard circulation coin throughout the empire. Despite its small size, this coin is a significant artifact of Roman history and culture, and it provides valuable insights into the economic and political systems of the time.