Caracalla, denarius, silver, reign 198–217, minted 210–213

Caracalla, denarius, silver, reign 198–217, minted 210–213. Weight 3.25 g, diameter 19 mm. Obverse: Laureate bust of Caracalla facing right; legend ANTONINVS PIVS AVG BRIT. Reverse: Fides standing left, holding standard and legionary eagle; to the right, a second standard; legend FIDEI EXERCITVS. Strike: well-centered with complete legends visible. Toning: light grey with darker highlights in recessed areas. References: RIC IV Caracalla 213. This coin was issued during Caracalla’s sole reign after the death of his father Septimius Severus in 211, during the period when he was consolidating his authority and emphasizing his connection to the army. The reverse type depicts Fides, the personification of loyalty, holding military standards, symbolizing the fidelity of the Roman legions to the emperor. The inclusion of BRIT in the obverse legend references Caracalla’s title Britannicus, acquired after victories in Britain during campaigns led by Septimius Severus. These coins formed part of broader propaganda aimed at reinforcing the legitimacy of Caracalla’s rule and his relationship with the military.