CVC & Collectables presents a powerful and historically grounded silver denarius issued in AD 202 under Septimius Severus, struck to commemorate Rome’s greatest victories over the Parthian Empire. This is a classic imperial propaganda issue, featuring a trophy of captured arms flanked by defeated Parthian captives—an unmistakable visual assertion of Roman military supremacy at the height of Severus’ reign.
Coin Highlights:
- Issuer: Roman Empire
- Emperor: Septimius Severus (AD 193–211)
- Denomination: AR Denarius
- Mint: Rome
- Date: AD 202
- Metal: Silver
- Strike: Hammered
- Grade: NGC Choice Fine (Ch F)
- Reference: RIC IV.1 185; RSC 373
Obverse:
Laureate head of Septimius Severus facing right, rendered in a mature imperial style emphasizing authority and piety.
Legend:
SEVERVS PIVS AVG
Translation: Severus, Dutiful (Pious) Augustus.
This title reflects Severus’ deliberate presentation as a morally upright and divinely sanctioned ruler following a decade of civil war and consolidation.
Reverse:
A trophy of Parthian arms and armor stands at center, flanked by two seated Parthian captives, bound and positioned symmetrically at the base.
Legend:
PART MAX P M TR P X COS III P P
Translation:
Greatest Victor over the Parthians, Chief Priest, Holder of Tribunician Power for the Tenth Time, Consul for the Third Time, Father of the Fatherland.
This is not a civic reverse, but a fully imperial military victory type, struck after Severus’ successful eastern campaigns culminating in the sack of Ctesiphon. The captives-and-trophy motif visually reinforces the inscription’s claim of Parthicus Maximus.
Emperor History – Septimius Severus
- Reign: AD 193–211
- Accession: Proclaimed emperor by Danubian legions during the Year of the Five Emperors
- Key Events: Defeat of rival claimants; Parthian campaigns; sack of Ctesiphon
- Coinage Themes: Military victory, divine favor, dynastic stability
- Legacy: Founder of the Severan Dynasty; strengthened the army and reshaped imperial power
Collectibility:
RIC 185 is a highly collectible Severan denarius, prized for its clear historical context and dramatic reverse symbolism. Examples with readable legends and intact captive figures, especially certified by NGC, are sought after by collectors focused on Roman military history, Parthian war issues, and Severan imperial propaganda.
Embark on a journey through time with ancient coins that span from 400 BC to AD 1055 at Chula Vista Coins. Explore a captivating collection of numismatic treasures that offer glimpses into civilizations long past. Uncover the allure of ancient history through this link: Ancient Coins
