Roman Empire – Silver denarius of Emperor Alexander
Severus Alexander ( A.D.). AR Denarius (20 mm, 3.2 g), Roma (Rome), A.D. Obverse: IMP C M AVR SEV ALEXAND AVG, laurelled, armoured and draped bust facing right. Reverse side: ANNOVA AVG, Annona facing left with ears of corn above modius. RIC IV, 2, p. .Severus Alexander was the beloved nephew of Elagabalus and was elevated to Caesar when he still was emperor. His popularity grew steadily and Elagabalus began to see him as a threat. Elagabalus tried to kill him, but the army chose the side of Severus Alexander and Elagabalus was assassinated. Thirteen years of relative peace followed. It was the first time since Marcus Aurelius that the emperor was so renowned for the love of art and prosperity he brought. His only and later fatal flaw was his adoration for his mother Julia Mamaea. Her involvement in state affairs was a growing source of aggravation for the military and the Senate, and ultimately led to both of them being killed. Read More