Sestertius - Septimius Severus (LIBERAL AVG TR P COS S C; Liberalitas) (193) front Sestertius - Septimius Severus (LIBERAL AVG TR P COS S C; Liberalitas) (193) back
Sestertius - Septimius Severus (LIBERAL AVG TR P COS S C; Liberalitas) (193) photo
© British Museum

Sestertius - Septimius Severus LIBERAL AVG TR P COS S C; Liberalitas

193 year
Bronze 20.7 g 31 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Septimius Severus (Lucius Septimius Severus) (193-211)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
193
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
20.7 g
Diameter
31 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#270040
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Septimius Severus, togate, seated left on platform; beside him, officer standing left; behind, Liberalitas, draped, standing left; before, on steps of platform, citizen, facing right.

Script: Latin

Lettering: LIBERAL AVG TR P COS S C

Unabridged legend: Liberalitas Augusti, Tribunicia Potestate, Consul. Senatus Consultum

Translation: The liberality of the emperor, holder of tribunician power, consul. Decree of the senate

Comment

Mass varies: 15.79–24.57 g;

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 Liberalitas, which represents the concept of liberty or freedom, on its reverse side. This is significant because it highlights the importance of individual freedom and the rule of law during the reign of Septimius Severus, who was known for his efforts to restore peace and stability to the Roman Empire after a period of civil war. The coin's design serves as a reminder of the values that the Roman Empire stood for during this time period.