Septimius Severus - Silver Denarius - RIC # IV 171a - A.D. 200-201 - VIRT AVGG

This is a magnificent, high-quality numismatic artifact representing the warrior ethos of the great African Emperor at the height of his power.

Septimius Severus was the ultimate soldier-emperor, famous for his advice to his sons: "Enrich the soldiers and despise all others." He seized the throne through military strength during the tumultuous 'Year of the Five Emperors' (AD 193) and spent his reign securing the empire's borders.

The VIRT AVGG reverse celebrates the military might that was the foundation of his power and the core of his dynasty's legitimacy. Struck after his decisive victory over the Parthian Empire (from which he gained the title PART MAX on the obverse), this coin literally links the Emperor's victorious conquests to the divine virtue of military courage.

This is an outstanding example of a silver denarius of Lucius Septimius Severus (AD 193-211), the founder of the powerful Severan Dynasty and the first Roman Emperor born in Africa. The coin's grade and striking are truly superior, making it a standout piece for any collector.

Obverse: Laureate head of Septimius Severus, facing right.

Legend: SEVERVS AVG PART MAX (Severus Augustus, Great Conqueror of the Parthians)

Collector Note: The portrait is deeply struck in high relief, capturing the fierce, curly-haired profile of the military emperor—a far better rendition than typically seen.

Reverse: VIRTUS (Military Valor) standing left, helmeted, holding a small Victory on a globe in her right hand, a grounded spear in her left, and a shield resting at her feet.

Legend: VIRT AVGG (The Courage of the Two Emperors)

This is a historically significant legend, likely referring to the joint military authority of Septimius Severus and his elder son, Caracalla, who was elevated to Augustus in AD 198.

Coin Grade – (based on Seller’s Opinion using AI Analysis):

Strike and Detail: The portrait of Septimius Severus is exceptionally sharp for the issue, with clear, detailed locks of hair and a strong beard. The obverse legend is nearly complete. The reverse figure of Virtus is also sharply defined, particularly the shield, spear, and figure of Victory she holds. The high-relief portrait is a major factor in its strong grade.

Wear: There is minimal circulation wear on the highest points (like the hair and the end of the nose). The overall preservation of the surface texture is excellent.

Centering: The obverse is well-centered. The reverse is also well-centered, allowing for a clear view of the legend and the full reverse type.

Surface: The surfaces appear solid with a pleasing, deep cabinet tone. There are some minor edge irregularities/chips (a common feature on ancient coins) but no major cracks or heavy corrosion.

Estimated Grade: Extremely Fine (XF) to Near Mint State (aUNC/Ch XF)

The detail on both sides is superior to a typical Very Fine (VF) example. The crispness of the hair and beard detail elevates this coin significantly.

Exceptional Portrait Detail!