Septimius Severus Denarius, 'Victoria Parthica' issue

Roman Empire · 201-202 AD

A silver Roman denarius featuring the laureate head of Emperor Septimius Severus on the obverse and Victory on the reverse.

Country: Roman Empire
Year: 201-202 AD
Denomination: Denarius
Metal: Silver (approximately 50-60% fineness)

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 May 4, 2026More roman empire coins →

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Overview

A silver Roman denarius featuring the laureate head of Emperor Septimius Severus on the obverse and Victory on the reverse.

Historical significance

This coin celebrates Septimius Severus' victories over the Parthian Empire. Severus was the first emperor of the Severan dynasty, coming to power after the 'Year of the Five Emperors'.

Obverse (front)

Laureate head of Septimius Severus facing right. Legend: SEVERVS PIVS AVG.

Reverse (back)

Victory advancing left, holding a wreath and palm branch; at her feet, a captive Parthian sitting. Legend: VICT PART MAX (Victoria Parthica Maxima).

Estimated value

$40-$80 in worn condition, $150-$300 in well-preserved 'Extremely Fine' condition.

What drives this coin's value

Centering of the strike, metal quality (avoiding 'horn silver' or crystallization), and legibility of the imperial titles.

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine. Legend is mostly legible, but there is significant wear on the hair and the high points of Victory.

Mintage & rarity

Common for the period; higher mintage to pay the military during his campaigns.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for a casting seam along the edge or 'soapy' mushy details. Genuine Roman coins were struck, not cast. Watch for repeated 'tooling' marks in the fields.

Notable varieties & errors

Variations in the legend (shorter or longer titles) and different depictions of captives at Victory's feet.

Similar coins

Often confused with denarii of his sons, Caracalla or Geta, who had similar reverse types, or the later Antoninianus which is larger and features a radiate crown.

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges; do not scrub or use chemical cleaners as it destroys the historical patina. Store in a PVC-free flip or a specialized coin cabinet.