Quinarius - Severus Alexander (VIRTVS AVG) (228-231) front Quinarius - Severus Alexander (VIRTVS AVG) (228-231) back
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Quinarius - Severus Alexander VIRTVS AVG

 
Silver - -
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
Silver Quinarius (¼)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#279266
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Severus Alexander, in military dress, standing left, foot on helmet, holding globe in right hand and spear reversed in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VIRTVS AVG

Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Quinarius was a denomination of Roman currency that was introduced during the reign of Emperor Septimius Severus in 193 AD. It was equal to one-fourth of a denarius, which was the standard unit of currency at the time. The Quinarius coin featuring Severus Alexander (VIRTVS AVG) was minted during his reign from 228-231 AD and was made of silver. Interestingly, the coin's obverse (front side) features an image of Severus Alexander wearing a radiate crown, which symbolized his divine status as a Roman emperor. The reverse (back side) of the coin depicts Victory standing on a prow, holding a wreath and a palm branch, signifying the Roman Empire's military victories and the emperor's role as a conqueror. Overall, the Quinarius - Severus Alexander (VIRTVS AVG) coin is a fascinating piece of history that provides insight into the Roman Empire's monetary system, political ideology, and artistic styles during the 3rd century AD.