222-235 AD Severus Alexander AV aureus NGC Ch AU 5/5 - 4/5

$12,900.00 USD

Severus Alexander (AD 222-235). AV aureus (21mm, 6.29 gm, 6h). NGC Choice AU 5/5 - 4/5, light scuff. Rome, AD 225. IMP C M AVR SEV-ALEXAND AVG, laureate, draped bust of Severus Alexander right, seen from behind / P M TR P IIII-COS P P, emperor standing facing in military dress, head left, globe in right hand, reversed spear in left. RIC IV.II 46. Calicó 3102. Lustrous flan with areas of golden toning.

Severus Alexander

Severus Alexander was the last to reign from the Severan Dynasty, which ruled the Roman Empire between 193 to 235 AD. The reign of Severus Alexander, from AD 222-235, presents the last relatively tranquil interlude before the mid-third century storm swept away the Pax Romana. Handsome and affable, the youth was really never more than a figurehead ruler. In 234, the northern portion of his empire was being invaded by Germanic and Sarmatian tribes. At this point in Alexander's career, he still knew little about being a general. Because of this, he hoped the mere threat of his armies would be sufficient to persuade the hostile tribes to surrender. When he tried to buy peace from the Germans rather than fight, his outraged soldiers rebelled and murdered him.

Minted in Rome in 225 AD. On the obverse is a laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of youthful Severus Alexander facing right, seen from behind. On the reverse is the emperor standing, facing in military dress, head left, globe in right hand, reversed spear in left. Lustrous flan with areas of toning. Very Rare in this condition and of the highest desirability.

Additional rarities: An ancient Severus Alexander (AD 222-235). AV aureus sold in April 2014 for $52,875.

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