ANNONA -- Goddess of Grain Severus Alexander, 13 March 222 - March 235 A.D.

ANNONA -- Goddess of Grain Severus Alexander, 13 March 222 - March 235 A.D.; Annona was the goddess of harvest and her main attribute is grain. This reverse refers to the arrival of grain by sea from the provinces (especially from Africa) and its distribution to the people. This type, issued prior to the emperor's expedition against the Sassanid Persians, combined with the legend extolling the emperor's foresite (Providentia Augusti) seems to be intended to reassure that the people's interests would not be forgotten during his absence from the capital.

Silver denarius, SRCV II 7923, RIC IV 252, RSC III 508b, BMCRE VI 813, aVF, grainy, 2.218g, 18.1mm, 0o, Rome mint, 231 A.D.; obverse IMP ALEXANDER PIVS AVG, laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from front; reverse PROVIDENTIA AVG, Providentia (or Annona) standing left, stalks of grain in right over modius, anchor in left.

A rather interesting connection with the sea; you can actually pick up the smell and feel of the sea-breezes and there are some scenes associated with this coin of sea travel.

HOT psychometrically, it is also a very beautiful bright silver coin.

$135.00

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