Severus II Aureus, Mars reverse
RIC VI Nicomedia 34 · 305 AD-306 AD · Nicomedia · Issued under Galerius
Obverse
CNG, CC-BY-SA-2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
Obverse
SEVERVS NOB CAES
Head of Severus II, laureate, right
Reverse
MARTI PA-TRI N_K
Mars, helmeted, standing front, head left, resting right hand on shield and leaning on sceptre with left hand
About This Type
This RIC VI Nicomedia 34 is an aureus of Severus II, issued under Galerius (305 AD-306 AD), struck at the Nicomedia mint. The reverse depicts Mars, helmeted, standing front, head left, resting right hand on shield and leaning on sceptre with left hand.
About the Aureus
The aureus was the principal Roman gold denomination, struck from the late Republic through the early fourth century. It typically weighs 7–8 grams and measures 19–21mm. Because gold does not corrode, aurei often survive in exceptional condition compared to silver and bronze issues of the same period.
About the Nicomedia Mint
Nicomedia (modern Izmit, Turkey) served as an eastern imperial mint from Diocletian's reform onward. It was particularly important under the Tetrarchy when Nicomedia served as a capital.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is RIC VI Nicomedia 34?
- RIC VI Nicomedia 34 is a Gold Aureus of Severus II issued under Galerius (305 AD-306 AD) struck at the Nicomedia mint cataloged under RIC no. RIC VI Nicomedia 34.
- How do you identify RIC VI Nicomedia 34?
- The obverse depicts Head of Severus II, laureate, right with the inscription SEVERVS NOB CAES. The reverse depicts Mars, helmeted, standing front, head left, resting right hand on shield and leaning on sceptre with left hand with the inscription MARTI PA-TRI N_K. Portrait type: laureate.
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