Sestertius - Severus Alexander (PROFECTIO AVGVSTI S C; Victory) (231-235) front Sestertius - Severus Alexander (PROFECTIO AVGVSTI S C; Victory) (231-235) back
Sestertius - Severus Alexander (PROFECTIO AVGVSTI S C; Victory) (231-235) photo
© Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen (CC BY-NC 4.0 DE)

Sestertius - Severus Alexander PROFECTIO AVGVSTI S C; Victory

 
Bronze 20.6 g -
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
Sestertius (⅛)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
20.6 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#279810
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Severus Alexander, on horseback, right, preceded by Victory holding wreath in right hand and palm in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: PROFECTIO AVGVSTI S C

Unabridged legend: Profectiones Augusti. Senatus Consultum.

Translation: Departure of the emperor (Augustus). Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 16.53–25.9 g;

Example of this type:
Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Victory (Victoria) on the reverse side, which was a common motif in Roman coinage, particularly during the reign of Severus Alexander. The image of Victory was meant to symbolize the Roman Empire's military prowess and its ability to conquer and subdue other nations. The use of Victory on coins also served as a way to promote the idea of Roman supremacy and to reinforce the notion that the Roman Empire was the dominant power of its time.