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RIC IV Severus Alexander 246c

DocumentedSupported by at least one credible specialist source.

Record status

Individual type · research required

Issuing entity

Roman Empire

RIC IV Severus Alexander 246c. Denomination: Denarius. Authority: Severus Alexander. Mint: Rome. The obverse shows bust of Severus Alexander, laureate, draped, right, with the legend IMP ALEXANDER PIVS AVG.

The reverse shows mars, helmeted, walking right, holding spear in right hand and shield in left hand, with the legend MARS VLTOR.

Evidence at a glance

Linked sources
2
Photograph views
4
Catalogue references
1

Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.

Historical context

Severus Alexander was Roman emperor from 222 until 235 AD, becoming the final ruler of the Severan dynasty after succeeding his murdered cousin, Elagabalus. Assuming sole rule at the age of thirteen, his reign lasted thirteen years. Although his rule proved prosperous in peacetime, Rome encountered major military challenges from the Sassanid Empire and Germanic tribes.

Produced at the mint of Rome, this silver denarius formed part of the standard silver coinage system that had served the Roman state since the Second Punic War. The coin carries the obverse legend "IMP ALEXANDER PIVS AVG" surrounding the emperor's portrait. The reverse depicts Mars, helmeted and bearing a spear and shield, alongside the inscription "MARS VLTOR".

Physical characteristics

Material
Silver
Denomination
Denarius

Technical characteristics

Mint
Rome
Authority
Severus Alexander

Design

Obverse
Bust of Severus Alexander, laureate, draped, right
Reverse
Mars, helmeted, walking right, holding spear in right hand and shield in left hand
Obverse legend
IMP ALEXANDER PIVS AVG
Reverse legend
MARS VLTOR

Identification

Type reference
RIC IV Severus Alexander 246c
Denomination and metal
Denarius, Silver
Obverse legend to match
IMP ALEXANDER PIVS AVG
Reverse legend to match
MARS VLTOR
Source note
Type description from the American Numismatic Society's Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE); individual specimens differ in die, flan size, weight and wear, and legend breaks may vary.

Documentation checklist

Denomination
Recorded
Issue or mint date
Recorded
Material
Recorded
Weight
Research required
Mint or printer
Recorded
Mint or printer mark
Research required
Catalogue reference
Recorded
Attached photograph (check rights)
Recorded

Recorded means a field is present, not independently verified. Read its wording, supporting source and the entry’s confidence level.

Catalogue references

Research required

  • Editorial verification required.
  • Weight, diameter and mint marks require specimen-level evidence.
  • Museum specimen photographs are linked by the source; local photographs and reuse rights remain unverified.
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