Caracalla as Caesar, silver, struck at Rome under Septimius Severus, AD 196-197

Denarius of Caracalla as Caesar, silver, struck at Rome under Septimius Severus, AD 196-197; weight 2.78 g, diameter 18 mm. Obverse legend M AVR ANTONINVS CAES encircles a right-facing, bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust of the youthful Caracalla, die axis centred and strike generally sharp on most examples, with moderate high-point softness. Reverse legend SECVRITAS PERPETVA features Minerva standing left, leaning on a round shield with her right arm and holding a spear in her left, fields usually flat and uncluttered. Specimens show light grey to steel toning typical of lightly circulated Severan silver. Standard references: RIC IV 2, RSC 562.

Issued during Caracalla’s brief tenure as heir, the type promoted the promise of unbroken security (securitas perpetua) under the Severan dynasty. By depicting Minerva, protector of Rome, the coin reassured the army and populace during campaigns against Parthia and simmering provincial unrest, while simultaneously familiarising subjects with the emperor’s young successor.