Roma Numismatics Ltd
Auction X 27 September 2015
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Septimius Severus AV Aureus. Rome, AD 197. L SEPT SEV PERT AVG IMP X, laureate bust right / HERCVLI DEFENS, Hercules standing right, resting right hand on club, holding bow in left hand, lion's skin draped over left arm. RIC 111; Cohen 213; Calicó 2460. 7.15g, 21mm, 12h.
Extremely Fine. Rare.
From the Ambrose Collection;
Ex Roma Numismatics IV, 30 September 2012, lot 573.
The obverse of this coin makes reference to Hercules who, as one of the chief gods of Severus' home town of Leptis Magna, blessed his undertakings. Here he is characterised as 'Defensor' and is presented with the familiar attributes of club, bow, quiver of arrows and the lion's skin, referencing his mythological feats and conferring similar prestige on Severus as protector of the Roman Empire. Hercules was also later adopted by Caracalla as his divine patron.
Extremely Fine. Rare.
From the Ambrose Collection;
Ex Roma Numismatics IV, 30 September 2012, lot 573.
The obverse of this coin makes reference to Hercules who, as one of the chief gods of Severus' home town of Leptis Magna, blessed his undertakings. Here he is characterised as 'Defensor' and is presented with the familiar attributes of club, bow, quiver of arrows and the lion's skin, referencing his mythological feats and conferring similar prestige on Severus as protector of the Roman Empire. Hercules was also later adopted by Caracalla as his divine patron.