SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS (193-211). Denarius. Rome.

Obv: SEVERVS PIVS AVG.
Laureate head right.
Rev: PROVIDENTIA.
Head of Medusa facing on outspread aegis.

RIC 286.

Very rare

The types bearing the medusa or aegis were struck on gold and silver coins of Septimius Severus and Caracalla, probably in 207, as one of the issues refers to the 15th renewal of Septimius' tribunician power. This was no coincidence, as it was a symbol very dear to the emperor, so much so that it was repeated in many decorations in the Severan Forum of Leptis Magna. Septimius visited Africa the year before he and his son Caracalla left for their important expedition to Britain. The ‘Providentia’ or ‘foresight’ referred to in the legend on the reverse is in fact related to the decision to invade that region, and associated with the image of Medusa and therefore Minerva, considered the protector of heroes and those who set out to accomplish great deeds. The emperors began to adorn the chest of their armor with the aegis, imitating Minerva.

Condition: Very fine.

Weight: 3.31 g.
Diameter: 19 mm.