Septimius Severus, denarius, silver, reign 193–211, minted 201

Septimius Severus, denarius, silver, reign 193–211, minted 201, weight 3.25 g, diameter 18 mm. Obverse: laureate bust right, legend SEVERVS PIVS AVG, strike in high relief. Reverse: two captives seated to left and right of a central trophy of arms, legend PART MAX P M TR P VIIII. The strike is centered with complete legends visible. Toning is light grey with minor darker areas in recesses. References: RIC IV Septimius Severus 176. This denarius was struck during the reign of Septimius Severus in 201, commemorating victories in the Parthian campaigns. The reverse type depicting captives and a trophy symbolizes the emperor’s military success and consolidation of Roman authority in the East. The legend PART MAX abbreviates Parthicus Maximus, a title assumed after these campaigns. This coin formed part of a broader imperial propaganda effort to reinforce Severus’ legitimacy and the stability of his rule following the political upheavals of 193.