Roman Denarius Coin

Inv. No.: c123
Date: A.D. 228-231.
Weight: 3.22g
 
Obv.: Severus Alexander, laureate.
IMP.SEV.ALEXAND.AVG.

Rev.: Virtus (or Roma), seated on cuirass, holding sceptre or spear in left hand, branch in right.
VIRTVS AVG.

The ruler hair and beard are beautifully engraved in high relief.

The legend of the reverse may, for once, be taken at its face value. Though excessively dependent on his mother Julia Mamaea, Alexander was talented and courageous and waged war effectively against the Persians and the Germans. He was the first emperor to show positive favour towards Christians. In general, Alexander reverses lay less emphasis on the ruler achievements and more on deities and virtues.

Rebellious soldiers murdered him and his mother in A.D. 235.

Comparanda:
RIC, Severus Alexander 221.