Julia Domna AR Denarius, Rome, LAETITIA, 196–211, RIC IV 561

Julia Domna, denarius, silver, reign 196–211; Rome mint, 196–211. 3.20 g; 18 mm. Obverse: IVLIA AVGVSTA; draped bust right, hair waved and coiled in a bun at back. Reverse: LAETITIA; Laetitia standing left, holding wreath in right hand and rudder set vertically in left. Even strike on a compact flan, well centered with largely legible legends. References: RIC IV (Septimius Severus) 561.

As Augusta and wife of Septimius Severus, Julia Domna played a central role in Severan dynastic propaganda. The LAETITIA type advertises public rejoicing and stability after the civil wars that brought Severus to power, while the rudder signals guidance of the state. Struck at Rome throughout her tenure as Augusta, this denarius reflects the regime’s emphasis on prosperity and order under the imperial household.