Alexander Severus Sestertius
Country of Origin: Roman Empire (Mint of Rome)
Year of Issue: 222-235 AD
Denomination: Sestertius
Composition: Orichalcum (Bronze/Brass alloy)
Brief Description
A heavy bronze Roman coin featuring the laureate bust of Emperor Alexander Severus on the obverse and a standing deity (likely Victoria or Pax) on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Alexander Severus was the last emperor of the Severan dynasty. His reign was marked by attempts at domestic reform but ended in his assassination, which triggered the Crisis of the Third Century.
Estimated Value
$40-$100 in Fair/Good condition, $250-$600 in Extremely Fine/Choice condition
Care Instructions
Do not clean with chemicals or abrasives. Store in an acid-free PVC-free holder. Avoid high humidity to prevent 'bronze disease' (green powdery corrosion).
Mint Mark
None (Rome mint products of this era lacked specific mint marks)
Mintage & Rarity
Relatively common for Roman imperial bronze, though well-preserved specimens are sought after.
Weight & Diameter
Typically 18-25 grams; 28-32 mm
Edge
Plain (Irregular)
Apparent Grade
Fine (significant wear but major legends and portrait features remain visible; reverse is very blurry/worn)
Obverse (Front)
Laureate, draped, and cushioned bust of Alexander Severus right. Legend: IMP SEV ALEXAND AVG or similar.
Reverse (Back)
A standing figure, likely Victoria (Victory) holding a wreath and palm, or Pax holding an olive branch. Large S C (Senatus Consulto) in field. Legend: VICTORIA AVGVSTI or similar.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition, sharpness of the portrait, presence of a smooth 'patina', and clarity of the reverse legend.
Similar Coins
Sestertii of Elagabalus or Maximinus Thrax; distinguished by portrait style and specific obverse legends.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for a casting seam on the edge or air bubbles on the surface (signs of a fake). Real ancient coins were struck between dies, not cast in molds.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Various reverse types exist including Mars, Jupiter, or Liberalitas, each with varying degrees of rarity.
Created At: 2026-04-21T11:48:50.286706