Alexander Severus Denarius: A Collector's Guide

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Hey there, coin enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of Roman coinage, specifically focusing on the Alexander Severus denarius. If you're a seasoned collector or just starting your numismatic journey, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to appreciate and potentially acquire one of these historical treasures.

Who Was Alexander Severus?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the denarius itself, let's talk about the emperor behind the coin. Alexander Severus ruled the Roman Empire from 222 to 235 AD. He was the last emperor of the Severan dynasty, a period known for its relative stability and prosperity, at least initially. Alexander came to power at a young age, and much of the actual governance was influenced by his mother, Julia Mamaea. His reign was marked by attempts at social and economic reforms, but also by increasing military challenges along the frontiers of the Empire. Sadly, his reign ended abruptly when he was assassinated by his own troops, ushering in a period of turmoil known as the Crisis of the Third Century.

Alexander Severus' reign, though relatively short compared to some other Roman emperors, is noteworthy for several reasons that make his coinage particularly interesting to collectors. He inherited a relatively stable empire from his predecessors in the Severan dynasty, but he faced increasing pressures from both external threats and internal political maneuvering. One of the key aspects of his rule was the influence of his mother, Julia Mamaea, who acted as his advisor and played a significant role in governing the empire. This maternal influence is often reflected in the iconography and inscriptions found on his coins, providing valuable insights into the power dynamics of the time. Economically, Alexander Severus attempted to maintain the stability of the Roman currency, but the increasing military expenditures and the need to appease the army put a strain on the empire's finances. This is evident in the gradual debasement of the silver content in the denarius over time, a trend that continued under his successors and contributed to the economic woes of the later Roman Empire. Furthermore, Alexander Severus' reign saw continued efforts to codify and refine Roman law, building on the work of previous emperors. His legal reforms aimed to improve the administration of justice and promote stability within the empire. However, his attempts to enforce discipline within the army and curb their excesses ultimately led to his downfall. The soldiers, dissatisfied with his leadership and perceived weakness, assassinated him and his mother in 235 AD, plunging the empire into a period of civil war and political instability. This tumultuous end to his reign adds a layer of historical significance to his coins, serving as a tangible reminder of the fragility of imperial power and the challenges faced by the Roman Empire during the third century.

What is a Denarius?

Now, what exactly is a denarius? The denarius was the standard silver coin of the Roman Republic and, later, the Roman Empire for centuries. Think of it as the workhorse of the Roman economy. Its value and silver content fluctuated over time, often reflecting the economic health and stability of the empire. During Alexander Severus' time, the denarius was still a significant coin, although its silver content had been reduced compared to earlier periods. This reduction, known as debasement, was a common practice used by emperors to stretch the budget, especially when facing military expenses.

The denarius played a crucial role in the economic and social life of the Roman world. Introduced during the Roman Republic around 211 BC, it quickly became the backbone of Roman commerce and trade. The weight and silver content of the denarius were initially quite consistent, making it a reliable medium of exchange. However, as the Roman Republic expanded and faced increasing financial pressures, the silver content of the denarius began to fluctuate. During the Roman Empire, the denarius continued to be the primary silver coin, but emperors frequently debased it by reducing the amount of silver and adding base metals like copper. This debasement was often done to finance military campaigns, public works, or to alleviate economic crises. The reign of Alexander Severus was no exception to this trend. While he attempted to maintain fiscal responsibility, the pressures of defending the empire's borders and managing internal affairs led to further debasement of the denarius. This gradual erosion of the coin's intrinsic value had significant consequences for the Roman economy, contributing to inflation and economic instability. Despite the debasement, the denarius remained in circulation and was used for everyday transactions, such as buying food, paying soldiers, and conducting business. The coin's widespread use meant that it was an important tool for disseminating imperial propaganda. Emperors used the imagery and inscriptions on denarii to communicate their policies, achievements, and legitimacy to the public. These coins, therefore, serve as valuable historical artifacts, providing insights into the economic, political, and social conditions of the Roman Empire. Collectors value denarii not only for their historical significance but also for their artistic merit. The designs on these coins often feature portraits of emperors, gods, and allegorical figures, showcasing the artistic skills of Roman engravers. The study of denarii, along with other Roman coins, helps us to understand the complexities of Roman history and culture, offering a tangible connection to the past.

Key Features of Alexander Severus Denarii

So, what should you look for when identifying an Alexander Severus denarius? Here are some key features:

Obverse (Front): Typically features a portrait of Alexander Severus facing right, wearing a laurel wreath. The inscription around the portrait usually includes his name and titles, such as "IMP ALEXANDER PIVS AVG." (Imperator Alexander Pius Augustus).
Reverse (Back): This is where things get interesting! The reverse designs vary widely and often depict Roman deities, allegorical figures, or scenes relating to the emperor's achievements. Common deities include Pax (Peace), Salus (Health), and Virtus (Valor). The inscription on the reverse usually identifies the figure or scene.
Metal: Silver, though often debased with other metals.
Size: Around 17-20mm in diameter.
Weight: Typically around 2-3 grams.

The obverse of an Alexander Severus denarius is particularly significant because it provides a direct representation of the emperor himself. The portrait usually depicts Alexander Severus as a young man, reflecting his age when he ascended to the throne. The laurel wreath he wears is a symbol of victory and imperial authority, indicating his status as the ruler of the Roman Empire. The inscriptions surrounding the portrait are also important, as they identify the emperor and his titles. The standard inscription, "IMP ALEXANDER PIVS AVG," translates to "Emperor Alexander, Dutiful, Augustus." These titles were carefully chosen to convey specific qualities and attributes associated with the emperor. "Imperator" signified his military command, "Pius" emphasized his piety and sense of duty towards the Roman people and the gods, and "Augustus" denoted his supreme authority and divine favor. Variations in these inscriptions can sometimes provide clues about the dating of the coin or specific events during his reign. For example, additional titles or epithets might be added to commemorate military victories or other significant achievements. The style and quality of the portrait on the obverse can also vary depending on the mint where the coin was produced and the skill of the engraver. Some portraits are more detailed and lifelike than others, reflecting the artistic standards of the time. Collectors often pay close attention to the obverse portrait when evaluating the condition and desirability of an Alexander Severus denarius. A well-struck portrait with clear details is generally considered more valuable than a poorly preserved or weakly struck example. The obverse, therefore, serves as a crucial element in identifying and appreciating the historical and artistic significance of these ancient coins.

Common Reverse Types

Let's explore some of the more common reverse types you might encounter on Alexander Severus denarii:

PAX AVG: Depicts Pax, the Roman goddess of peace, holding an olive branch and scepter. This type emphasizes the emperor's desire for peace and stability within the empire.
SALVS AVG: Shows Salus, the goddess of health and well-being, feeding a snake from a patera (a shallow dish). This type highlights the emperor's concern for the health and prosperity of his people.
PM TRP COS: This inscription, along with various numbers for TRP and COS, refers to the emperor's tribunician power (TRP) and consulship (COS). The reverse often features a simple design, such as a seated figure or a symbolic object.
VIRTVS AVG: Depicts Virtus, the personification of courage and military strength, often armed with a spear and shield. This type emphasizes the emperor's military prowess and his ability to defend the empire.

Understanding the reverse types of Alexander Severus denarii is essential for collectors, as they provide valuable insights into the emperor's policies, values, and the overall concerns of his reign. The depiction of Pax, the goddess of peace, on the reverse of many denarii reflects the emperor's desire to maintain stability and harmony within the empire. This was particularly important during a time when the Roman Empire faced increasing threats from external enemies and internal strife. The image of Pax holding an olive branch and scepter symbolizes the blessings of peace and the emperor's role as a peacemaker. Similarly, the representation of Salus, the goddess of health and well-being, underscores the emperor's concern for the welfare of his people. The act of Salus feeding a snake from a patera is a symbolic gesture, representing the promotion of health and the prevention of disease. This reverse type highlights the importance of public health in Roman society and the emperor's efforts to ensure the well-being of his subjects. The inscriptions "PM TRP COS" followed by numbers, which refer to the emperor's tribunician power and consulship, are also significant. The tribunician power granted the emperor the authority to protect the interests of the plebeians and veto the actions of the Senate, while the consulship was the highest elected office in the Roman Republic and Empire. These inscriptions indicate the emperor's constitutional authority and his adherence to Roman traditions. The depiction of Virtus, the personification of courage and military strength, on the reverse of some denarii emphasizes the emperor's military prowess and his commitment to defending the empire. This reverse type often features Virtus armed with a spear and shield, symbolizing the readiness to protect Roman territories from external threats. Each of these reverse types provides a unique perspective on the priorities and concerns of Alexander Severus' reign, making the study of his denarii a rewarding and insightful endeavor for collectors.

Identifying Fakes

Unfortunately, the popularity of Roman coins means there are fakes out there. Here are some tips to help you spot a counterfeit Alexander Severus denarius:

Weight and Size: Compare the coin's weight and size to the standard specifications. Significant deviations could indicate a fake.
Style and Detail: Examine the style and detail of the portrait and reverse design. Fakes often lack the sharpness and artistry of genuine coins.
Seam Lines: Look for seam lines around the edge of the coin, which can indicate that it was cast rather than struck.
Metal Composition: If possible, have the coin tested for its metal composition. Fakes may be made of base metals rather than silver.
Seller Reputation: Buy from reputable dealers who guarantee the authenticity of their coins.

Identifying fake Alexander Severus denarii requires a keen eye and a good understanding of the characteristics of genuine coins. Weight and size are crucial factors to consider when assessing the authenticity of a denarius. Counterfeit coins often deviate from the standard specifications in terms of weight and dimensions. A genuine Alexander Severus denarius typically weighs around 2 to 3 grams and has a diameter of approximately 17 to 20 millimeters. Significant variations from these measurements may indicate that the coin is a fake. Style and detail are also important indicators of authenticity. Genuine Roman coins were struck with great care, and the portraits and reverse designs are typically sharp and well-defined. Counterfeit coins, on the other hand, often lack the fine details and artistic quality of genuine examples. The style of the portrait, the lettering of the inscriptions, and the overall aesthetic should be consistent with the period in which the coin was produced. Seam lines are another telltale sign of a fake coin. Genuine Roman coins were struck from metal blanks, while counterfeit coins are often cast. The casting process can leave behind seam lines around the edge of the coin, where the two halves of the mold joined together. These seam lines are not present on genuine struck coins and can be a clear indication of a forgery. Metal composition is another important factor to consider. Genuine Alexander Severus denarii were made of silver, although the silver content varied over time due to debasement. Counterfeit coins may be made of base metals such as copper or lead, or they may have a thin layer of silver plating over a base metal core. Testing the metal composition of a coin can help to determine whether it is genuine or fake. Finally, buying from reputable dealers is essential for ensuring the authenticity of your coins. Reputable dealers typically guarantee the authenticity of their coins and have the expertise to identify fakes. They can also provide valuable information about the history and provenance of the coins they sell. By following these tips and exercising caution, you can reduce the risk of purchasing a counterfeit Alexander Severus denarius and build a collection of genuine and historically significant coins.

Value and Collecting Tips

The value of an Alexander Severus denarius depends on several factors, including:

Condition: Coins in excellent condition with sharp details are worth more than worn or damaged coins.
Rarity: Some reverse types are rarer than others, making them more valuable.
Historical Significance: Coins with interesting historical associations may command a premium.
Eye Appeal: A well-centered coin with attractive toning is generally more desirable.

Here are some tips for collecting Alexander Severus denarii:

Start with Common Types: Begin by collecting common reverse types in decent condition to build a foundation for your collection.
Research: Learn as much as you can about Roman coinage and Alexander Severus' reign. Knowledge is power!
Be Patient: Building a quality collection takes time. Don't rush into buying expensive coins without doing your homework.
Network: Connect with other collectors and dealers to learn from their experience and expand your knowledge.

Understanding the factors that influence the value of an Alexander Severus denarius is essential for collectors looking to build a valuable and historically significant collection. Condition is one of the most important determinants of a coin's value. Coins in excellent condition, with sharp details, clear inscriptions, and minimal wear, are generally worth more than coins that are worn, damaged, or poorly preserved. The degree of preservation affects the visual appeal of the coin and the amount of historical information it conveys. Rarity is another key factor that influences the value of an Alexander Severus denarius. Some reverse types are more common than others, and rarer reverse types tend to be more valuable. The rarity of a coin depends on various factors, such as the number of coins that were originally minted, the number of coins that have survived to the present day, and the demand for the coin among collectors. Historical significance can also play a role in determining a coin's value. Coins with interesting historical associations, such as those that commemorate significant events or depict important historical figures, may command a premium among collectors. The historical context of a coin adds to its appeal and makes it a more desirable addition to a collection. Eye appeal is another subjective but important factor that can influence a coin's value. A well-centered coin with attractive toning, pleasing aesthetics, and overall visual appeal is generally more desirable than a coin that is off-center, poorly toned, or visually unappealing. The aesthetic qualities of a coin can enhance its collectibility and make it a more enjoyable piece to own. By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, collectors can make informed decisions when buying and selling Alexander Severus denarii and build collections that are both valuable and historically significant. Starting with common types, researching Roman coinage, being patient, and networking with other collectors are all valuable strategies for building a successful collection.

Final Thoughts

The Alexander Severus denarius offers a tangible connection to the Roman Empire and a fascinating glimpse into the life and times of a complex emperor. Whether you're drawn to the history, the artistry, or the challenge of collecting, these coins provide a rewarding and enriching experience. Happy collecting, guys!