Denarius - Clodius Albinus ROMAE AETERNAE, Roma
| Issuer | Western provinces, Usurpations of |
|---|---|
| Year | 193-195 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Denarius (1) |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.4 g |
| Diameter | 18.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC IV.1#11B, OCRE#ric.4.ca.11B |
| Obverse description | Head of Clodius Albinus, bare, right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
D CLOD SEPT ALBIN CAES (Translation: Decimus Clodius Septimius Albinus Caesar.) |
| Reverse description | Roma, helmeted, draped, seated left on shield, holding palladium in outstretched right hand and sceptre in left hand. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
ROMAE AETERNAE (Translation: Romae Aeternae. Everlasting Rome.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (193-195) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1711668130 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This denarius of Clodius Albinus, 193-195 AD, stems from the tumultuous "Year of the Five Emperors" following Commodus's assassination. Albinus, initially governor of Britannia and Caesar under Septimius Severus, later declared himself Augustus. This coin, struck in Rome, asserted his claim in the western provinces against Severus. The legend ROMAE AETERNAE, "To Eternal Rome," was potent propaganda, linking Albinus to the capital's strength amidst civil conflict.
Artistry: The coin’s artistry reflects the robust, practical style of late Antonine/early Severan Roman mints, by anonymous imperial engravers. The obverse typically features a laureate portrait of Albinus, conveying authority. The reverse depicts Roma, personification of the city, seated left on a cuirass, holding Victory and a spear. This classical iconography, emphasizing Rome's eternal nature and military prowess, was a standard, powerful