Sestertius - Severus Alexander (PROVIDENTIA AVG S C; Providentia) (231-235) front Sestertius - Severus Alexander (PROVIDENTIA AVG S C; Providentia) (231-235) back
Sestertius - Severus Alexander (PROVIDENTIA AVG S C; Providentia) (231-235) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Severus Alexander PROVIDENTIA AVG S C; Providentia

 
Bronze 19.5 g 30 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
Sestertius (⅛)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
19.5 g
Diameter
30 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#279812
Rarity index
89%

Reverse

Providentia, draped, standing front, head left, holding two corn-ears in right hand over modius and cornucopiae in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: PROVIDENTIA AVG S C

Translation:
Providentia Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
Providence of the emperor (Augustus). Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 13.7–22.332 g;
Diameter varies: 29–32 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Providentia, the Roman goddess of foresight and forward planning, on its reverse side. This suggests that the coin was minted during a time when the Roman Empire was focusing on planning and preparation for the future, perhaps in response to external threats or internal challenges.