Zeus Numismatics
Auction 10 12 Jul 2020
View prices realized
► Sale information
Find similar lots
Septimius Severus. AD 193-211. AR Denarius. Rome mint. Struck AD 197. Laureate head right / Elephant, cuirassed, advancing right. RIC IV 100; RSC 349. EF. Typical compact flan.
The legend and the image of an elephant of this reverse type alludes to the munificence of the emperor through the largesse given to the populace and through various public spectacles, many of which would feature wild and foreign animals such as the elephant. Additionally, elephants were viewed by the ancients as symbols of eternity as they were thought to have an extraordinarily long life span. As golden age symbolism was very common before, during, and after the wars of the succession, a dual-meaning may also have been intended.
Condition: Very Fine
Weight: 3.00 gr
Diameter: 16 mm
The legend and the image of an elephant of this reverse type alludes to the munificence of the emperor through the largesse given to the populace and through various public spectacles, many of which would feature wild and foreign animals such as the elephant. Additionally, elephants were viewed by the ancients as symbols of eternity as they were thought to have an extraordinarily long life span. As golden age symbolism was very common before, during, and after the wars of the succession, a dual-meaning may also have been intended.
Condition: Very Fine
Weight: 3.00 gr
Diameter: 16 mm