Alexander Severus Sestertius

Roman Empire (Mint of Rome) · 222-235 AD

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.

Country: Roman Empire (Mint of Rome)
Year: 222-235 AD
Denomination: Sestertius
Metal: Orichalcum (Bronze/Brass alloy)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified April 21, 2026More roman empire (mint of rome) coins →

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Overview

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.

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.

Estimated value

$40-$100 in Fair/Good condition, $250-$600 in Extremely Fine/Choice condition

What drives this coin's value

Condition, sharpness of the portrait, presence of a smooth 'patina', and clarity of the reverse legend.

Grade assessment

Fine (significant wear but major legends and portrait features remain visible; reverse is very blurry/worn)

Mintage & rarity

Relatively common for Roman imperial bronze, though well-preserved specimens are sought after.

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.

Similar coins

Sestertii of Elagabalus or Maximinus Thrax; distinguished by portrait style and specific obverse legends.

Care & preservation

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).