2020-04-04 Sat

Caracalla, better known as Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, was the son of Septimius Severus. He was named Caesar in 196 and Augustus in 198. He was a co-ruler with his father and brother. Soon after the death of his father, Caracalla had Geta murdered and massacred thousands suspected of supporting him and ascended the throne.

Caracalla's reign was a notable one. Caracalla’s reign was famous for the expeditions he carried, the structures he built, and the men he killed. Along with that, his reign was also famous for the coins that he minted. Mostly in silver and few in gold, the coins of Emperor Caracalla were distinctive like the emperor himself. He had issued a silver antoninianus depicting Goddess Venus with the legend ‘Venus the Victorious’ on its reverse side.

Issued by Emperor Caracalla, this silver denarius is one of the iconic numismatics pieces of the coinage of the Roman Empire. The coin depicts the bust of Caracalla facing right on the obverse. The king is shown with a frown and wearing a laurel. The inscription is around. The reverse shows Virtus, right breast exposed, standing to face, left foot on helmet, head left, with spear grounded in right hand and parazonium in left.

Image Source: Heritage Auctions