Silver Denarius of Julia Domna RIC 572

Silver Denarius (18mm 2.78g) Struck AD 204 Rome

Obv: IVLIA AVGVSTA Draped bust right

Rev: PIETAS AVGG Pietas, veiled, standing left, dropping incense on altar, holding box

RIC IV i 572, Sears 6600
ex. Beast Coins

The Front (Obverse): Meet the Empress

• What you see: A beautiful portrait of Julia Domna looking to the right. Take a look at her hair—she was a major trendsetter in Rome, famous for wearing these elaborate, helmet-like wigs and heavily waved hairstyles.
• The Text: It reads IVLIA AVGVSTA (Julia Augusta). "Augusta" was the highest title an empress could receive, basically marking her as Roman royalty.

The Back (Reverse): Staying Dutiful

• What you see: A veiled woman standing next to a small altar. She is dropping a pinch of incense onto a tiny fire while holding a small box of incense in her other hand.
• Who is she? This is Pietas, the Roman goddess of duty, respect, and religious devotion.
• The Text: It reads PIETAS AVGG. The "AVGG" is a clever Roman abbreviation shortcut. The double "G" at the end means "Augustorum" (plural), pointing to two emperors. In AD 204, Septimius Severus was ruling alongside his son, Caracalla.

Why was this coin made?

In ancient Rome, coins weren't just pocket change—they were the ultimate political billboards! By putting the goddess of duty (Pietas) on the back of the Empress's coin, the royal family was sending a clear message to the public: "Look how pious, loyal, and traditional our family is! You can trust us to keep Rome safe and blessed by the gods."