Septimius Severus Denarius

Roman Empire · 193-211 AD (specifically circa 202-210 AD)

A silver Roman coin featuring a laureate bearded portrait on the obverse and a standing deity on the reverse.

Country: Roman Empire
Year: 193-211 AD (specifically circa 202-210 AD)
Denomination: Denarius
Metal: Silver (typically 50-80% fineness during this period)

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 coin featuring a laureate bearded portrait on the obverse and a standing deity on the reverse.

Historical significance

Septimius Severus was the founder of the Severan Dynasty and the first emperor of African descent. His reign was marked by military expansion and the increasing debasement of the Roman currency to pay for army wages.

Obverse (front)

Laureate head of Emperor Septimius Severus facing right, with legend typically reading SEVERVS PIVS AVG.

Reverse (back)

A deity or personification (likely Felicitas or Liberalitas) standing, holding a cornucopia or caduceus. Legend often reads FELICITAS AVGG or similar.

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, clarity of the emperor's portrait, and the amount of silver luster remaining.

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine; visible wear on the high points of the hair and beard, with some surface crystallization or dark toning.

Mintage & rarity

Common for the series; millions were produced and many survive today.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Look for a seams on the edge indicating a cast fake; check for 'potholes' (casting bubbles). This example shows an authentic-looking strike with typical irregular edges.

Notable varieties & errors

Varieties include different reverse deities and titles commemorating victories in Britain or Parthia.

Similar coins

Often confused with denarii of his sons Caracalla or Geta, or his successor Alexander Severus. Distinguishable by the distinctive 'forked' beard of Septimius.