Sestertius - Severus Alexander P M TR P VI COS II P P S C, Aequitas

Historical Context: This Sestertius, struck in 227 AD, dates to the early reign of Severus Alexander, a young emperor who ascended the throne at the age of fourteen in 222 AD. His rule was heavily influenced by his mother, Julia Mamaea, and characterized by an attempt to restore senatorial prestige and financial stability after the tumultuous reign of Elagabalus. The inscription P M TR P VI COS II P P S C confirms his sixth tribunician power and second consulship, precisely dating the coin. The reverse depiction of Aequitas, the personification of equity and fairness, served as a crucial propaganda message, projecting an image of just governance and fair dealing to the Roman populace amidst a period of increasing internal and external pressures.

Artistry: The anonymous engravers of the Roman mints during the Severan period adhered to a stylistic school that blended idealized portraiture with a degree of realism. The obverse of this Sestertius would typically feature a youthful, laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Severus Alexander, reflecting the imperial desire to portray him as a virtuous and capable leader. The reverse design of Aequitas standing, holding scales (libra) and a cornucopia (cornucopiae), is a classical representation of the goddess. The scales symbolize impartiality and justice, while the cornucopia represents abundance and prosperity, reinforcing the emperor's commitment to the welfare and equitable distribution of resources to the Roman state.

Technical/Grading: As a bronze Sestertius, this coin was produced on a substantial flan, often leading to a broad but sometimes uneven strike. The specified weight of 20 grams is consistent with Sestertii of this era, though the overall weight standard was in gradual decline. For grading purposes, high-points to examine for wear include the emperor's hair, ear, nose, and the laurel wreath on the obverse. On the reverse, critical details are Aequitas's head, the top of the scales, the mouth of the cornucopia, and the drapery folds. A well-struck example would exhibit clear facial features on both obverse and reverse, with full legends and a well-centered design, though slight off-centering or flatness in certain areas is common for this denomination.