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Ancient Roman Empire Silver DenariusEmperor Severus Alexander (r. 222-235 A.D.)
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Obverse:IMP C M AVR SEV ALEXAND AVG, Bust of Severus Alexander, laureate, draped, right
Reverse:P M TR P III COS P P, Severus Alexander, laureate, in military attire with cloak behind back, standing left, holding globe in right hand and spear reversed in left hand
Year: 224 A.D., RIC 44c
Composition: Silver, 19.5mm diameter, 3.18g weight
Severus Alexander was proclaimed emperor at age 13, immediately following the assassination of Emperor Elagabalus, his cousin. The early years of his reign were marked by prosperity, and the young emperor instituted a number of positive social and economic reforms. Despite his young age, the emperor displayed wisdom and temperance in his policies, a welcome contrast to the wild debaucheries of his predecessor.
But the rise of the powerful Sassanid Empire in Persia, and more devastating raids from Germanic tribes forced Severus Alexander out of his comfort zone, into the military realm. With no military experience and little natural talent for leading a campaign, the emperor quickly gained the contempt of many of his troops. His tendency to rely on his mother for advice, and his attempt to bribe the Germanic tribes to avoid battle were seen as weak by his armies, and he was murdered by his own soldiers at the age of 26. This would trigger the Crisis of the 3rd Century, a 50-year period of near constant civil war in which 26 different emperors briefly held the throne.
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1) Lifetime guarantee of authenticity- all of our ancient coins are carefully authenticated and purchased from reputable numismatic sale houses. We have been selling on for over 15 years and completely guarantee the authenticity of all the coins we sell.
2) Fast shipping -all orders shipped within one business day
3) 30-day return policy- not happy with your coin? Return it within 30 days of your purchase for a full refund, no questions asked (we pay the return shipping costs)
4)No overmarketing- only a simple description of wear/luster
5)No photoediting- all pictures are unedited
Gift Options
We offer multiple options for those looking to give our coins as gifts, or display/present them. Please contact us if you are interested, or purchase via the links below.Printed/signed certificate of authenticity($5 additional)
Black velvet display holder($10 additional)
Floating coin frame($10 additional)
