Sestertius - Severus Alexander (LIBERALITAS AVGVSTI IIII S C; Liberalitas) (222-231) front Sestertius - Severus Alexander (LIBERALITAS AVGVSTI IIII S C; Liberalitas) (222-231) back
Sestertius - Severus Alexander (LIBERALITAS AVGVSTI IIII S C; Liberalitas) (222-231) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Severus Alexander LIBERALITAS AVGVSTI IIII S C; Liberalitas

 
Bronze 20.9 g 31.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Severus Alexander (Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander) (222-235)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
222-231
Value
Sestertius (⅛)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
20.9 g
Diameter
31.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#279717
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Severus Alexander, seated left on platform; behind, officers and soldier; in front, Liberalitas, standing left; citizen mounting steps.

Script: Latin

Lettering: LIBERALITAS AVGVSTI IIII S C

Translation:
Liberatlitas Augusti Quarta. Senatus Consultum.
The fourth liberality of the emperor (Augustus). Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 16.56–23.88 g;
Diameter varies: 31–32 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Sestertius - Severus Alexander (LIBERALITAS AVGVSTI IIII S C; Liberalitas) coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Liberalitas, who is depicted holding a libation bowl and a scepter. This image symbolizes the idea of liberty and the generosity of the Roman Empire under the rule of Severus Alexander. The coin's design was meant to promote the idea of the emperor's generosity and his commitment to the well-being of his people, which was an important aspect of Roman imperial propaganda during this time period.