Detail mince: Gold Aureus of Septimius Severus - Ex Christie’s 6.10.1987, 445

Gold Aureus of Septimius Severus

We present a fascinating piece of history: a gold aureus of one of the most powerful emperors in Roman history. This specific specimen originates from the mint in Laodicea ad Mare (modern-day Latakia, Syria) and was struck at the turn of the 2nd and 3rd centuries, a time when Severus was consolidating his power over the Empire.

Key Specifications

• Ruler: Septimius Severus (reign 193–211 AD)

• Nominal: Aureus

• Weight: 7.10 g

• Date of Issue: 198–202 AD

• Mint: Laodicea ad Mare (Latakia)

Artistic Description and Symbolism

• Obverse: Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust of the emperor facing right. The legend L SEPT SEV AVG IMP XI PART MAX proudly bears the titles of the victor over the Parthians (Parthicus Maximus). The detailed rendering of the beard and facial expression is typical of the masterful Eastern strikes of that era.

• Reverse: Personification of loyalty, Fides, standing frontally, head turned left, holding two military standards. The legend CONCORDIAE MILITVM (Harmony of the Armies) is significant – Septimius Severus was well aware that his throne rested on the loyalty of his legionnaires.

Why is this coin exceptional?

• Rarity: Classified as R2 in the RIC catalog. In numismatic databases, only 6 specimens of this type have been recorded in the last 26 years.

• Prestigious Provenance: The coin has a documented pedigree. It was part of world-class collections, such as the Dreesman Collection, and passed through renowned auction houses (Ex Christie’s 1987, 445; Spink 2000, Dr. Anton C. R. Dreesmann, 4; NAC 24, 2002, European Nobleman, 130; H.D. Rauch 88, 2011, 506).

• Condition: Graded as extremely fine (EF/vzgl.). Despite a minor die rust/impurity on the reverse (typical for period technology), it retains sharp details and a magnificent luster.

Collector's Tip: Strikes from Eastern mints like Laodicea possess a specific artistic style distinct from Rome's production. For collectors of the Severan dynasty, this piece represents the pinnacle of 2nd-century portrait art and political propaganda.

About Laodicea ad Mare

• Foundation: Founded around 300 BC by Seleucus I Nicator and named after his mother, Laodice.

• Relation to Severus: During the civil war against Pescennius Niger, Laodicea sided with Severus. After his victory, he rewarded the city by making it the capital of the province of Syria and granting it Ius Italicum. The mint operated here between 198–202 AD to fund Eastern campaigns.

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