Severus Alexander Denar Rom 222

Denarius of Rome 222

IMP C M AVR SEV ALEXAND AVG

Right-facing bust

SALVS PVBLICA

Depiction of the goddess Salus seated to the left

Severus Alexander was a Roman emperor who reigned from 222 to 235 AD. He was born in the year 208 AD and was the son of Emperor Marcus Julius Philippus, also known as Emperor Philip the Arab. Alexander became emperor at the age of only 13 after the murder of his predecessor, Emperor Elagabalus.

During his reign, Severus Alexander sought to promote peace and stabilize the empire. He pursued a policy of mildness and clemency towards enemies, which drew criticism from the military and the Roman aristocracy. He also attempted to improve the economic situation and implemented reforms to alleviate the burden on the lower social classes.

Severus Alexander was also known for his intellectual and cultural pursuits. He was a great admirer of philosophy and literature and had a close relationship with philosophers and scholars at his court. He sought to promote Greek culture and favored Hellenistic influences within the Roman Empire.

Unfortunately, Severus Alexander's reign came to an abrupt end when he was assassinated in 235 AD by his own soldiers during a military uprising. Despite his short reign, Severus Alexander is known as an emperor who sought peace and cultural development within the Roman Empire.