Julia Domna Silver Denarius

Julia Domna Silver Denarius – Rome Mint, circa AD 196–211 – Superb Portrait and Lustrous Surfaces

This listing is for a genuine ancient Roman silver denarius of Julia Domna, wife of Emperor Septimius Severus and mother of Caracalla and Geta. Struck at the Rome Mint between AD 196 and 211, this coin features a finely detailed bust of Julia Domna, draped and facing right, with an elegant hairstyle characteristic of the Severan period. The reverse depicts a seated female deity — most likely Venus Genetrix — holding a sceptre and extending her right hand, symbolising beauty, fertility, and imperial continuity.

This example exhibits a sharp, well-centred strike with excellent portrait detail and glowing silver lustre. The reverse design is crisp and fully legible, showing fine artistry typical of early 3rd-century Roman minting. A superb, problem-free example with attractive cabinet tone and full legend.

Historical Context

Julia Domna was one of the most influential women of the Roman Empire, renowned for her intellect and political acumen. Born in Emesa (modern-day Homs, Syria), she became Empress alongside Septimius Severus and later wielded immense power as mother to two emperors. Her coinage is celebrated for its elegant portraits and rich variety of reverse types reflecting virtues such as harmony, fertility, and wisdom.

Coin Details

Empire: Roman Empire
Empress: Julia Domna (Augusta, AD 193–217)
Denomination: Denarius (Silver)
Date: Circa AD 196–211
Metal: AR (Silver)
Weight: 3.2 g
Diameter: 18–19 mm
Mint: Rome
Obverse Legend: IVLIA AVGVSTA
Obverse Design: Draped bust of Julia Domna facing right
Reverse Legend: VENVS FELIX (var.)
Reverse Design: Venus seated left, holding sceptre and extending right hand, child (Cupid) at feet
Edge: Plain

Condition

Extremely Fine with brilliant silver tone and full legend. Exceptional strike quality for the issue with superb portrait detail and a smooth, undamaged surface.

Collectors’ Notes

A particularly attractive and well-preserved denarius of Julia Domna — exhibiting near full lustre and strong classical style. Highly sought after for its artistry, condition, and connection to one of Rome’s most powerful empresses.