Bronze Post Reform Radiate of Severus II RIC 60a

Bronze Post Reform Radiate (20mm 2.66g) Struck 306 A.D. Alexandria

Obv: FL VAL SEVERVS NOB CAES Radiate draped and cuirassed bust right

Rev: CONCORDIA MILITVM Prince standing right receiving small victory on globe from Jupiter

RIC 60a   Ex William C. Boyd collection (1840-1906), Baldwins Auction (42) 9/26/05 Purchased by Mr. Boyd from W. Christian, Swanley, 11/22/1903

The Front Side (Obverse)

This side features a side-profile portrait of the ruler.

• What you see: A portrait of Severus II looking to the right. He is wearing a spiky crown called a radiate crown (which was meant to look like the rays of the sun) and a mix of military armor and draped clothing.
• The Latin words: FL VAL SEVERVS NOB CAES
• What it means: This is short for Flavius Valerius Severus Nobilissimus Caesar. It's a grand introduction saying: "Flavius Valerius Severus, most noble Caesar (junior emperor)."

The Back Side (Reverse)

The back of Roman coins was basically the empire's propaganda machine, showing off important themes like strength, peace, or divine approval.

• What you see: Two figures standing face-to-face. On the left is the prince (Severus II) standing tall. On the right is the king of the Roman gods, Jupiter, holding a scepter. Jupiter is handing a tiny, winged goddess of Victory standing on a globe over to Severus. It's a visual way of saying, "The gods give our ruler the power to win global victories!"
• The Latin words: CONCORDIA MILITVM
• What it means: This translates to "Harmony of the Military." It was a public message reminding everyone—especially the Roman soldiers—how important it was for the army to stay united and loyal.

Fun Extra Facts

• Post-Reform Radiate: The name of the coin type means it was minted after a massive economic makeover (reform) launched by a previous emperor named Diocletian to try and fix Rome's runaway inflation problems.
• The Pedigree: This specific coin has a cool history of its own! It was once part of the famous collection of William C. Boyd, an old-school coin collector who bought this exact piece all the way back on November 22, 1903.