Emperor Septimius Severus (193-211AD) Silver Denarius - Rome Mint - RIC IV, 176 (c.201 AD)

Obverse-   ‘SEVERUS PIUS AVG’ 

Translation- “Emperor Severus, the pious”

- Laureate head of Septimius Severus facing right 

Reverse-  ‘PARTMAX P TRP VIIII’

Translation- “Greatest conqueror of Parthia, chief priest, holder of tribunician power for the ninth time”

- Trophy of arms with two captives seated on either side in attitudes of mourning, hands raised to their heads. The reverse vividly commemorates Severus’ Parthian victories.

Type reference: RIC IV, 176 

Weight: ~ 2.9g 

Diameter: 19mm x 20mm 

composition: Silver 

Fineness: approx. .500-.600 (likely debased typical of era) 

Method: Hammered 

The coin will come in a plastic protective slip with an identification label Included. 

Condition:  
This silver denarius of Septimius Severus is an excellent example of Roman imperial coinage. The obverse features a detailed bust that surpasses most surviving examples, and a full, unclipped flan. Raised features are retained throughout, including fine hair strands, the circle of dots and legends. The portrait’s clarity and depth are particularly impressive and gives the emperor’s likeness remarkable presence, making this coin a visually stunning and historically significant piece.

The reverse is well struck and centred, with clear, raised details of both trophy and captives along with a full legend present. 

Historical Context: 
Struck during Severus’ ninth tribunician year (AD 201), this coin reflects Rome’s military and political power. Severus was the only emperor to have stepped foot in Scotland, and the only known emperor to have died here in the UK (in York).
The trophy-and-captives reverse celebrates his Parthian campaign, while the obverse portrays the emperor in commanding detail, making this coin both a collectible and a miniature work of art.