EGYPT. Alexandria. Julia Domna, Augusta, 193-217. Tetradrachm (Billon, 24 mm, 14.06 g, 12 h), RY 3 of Septimius Severus = 194/5. ΙΟΥΛΙΑ ΔΟΜΝΑ CЄΒ Draped bust of Julia Domna to right. Rev. L Γ Septimius Severus on horseback to left, about to spear a fallen Parthian below. Dattari (Savio) 4017 (this coin). Emmett 2730.3. K&G 50.4. Extremely rare and in exceptional condition for the issue. Minor flan faults, otherwise, good very fine.


This fascinating piece curiously combines the obverse of an empress with an explicit military reverse. This is explained by the extremely low output of the Alexandrian mint during the early Severan period, which probably led to a less clear distinction between 'masculine' and 'feminine' types. The enemy on the reverse, who may be identified as a Parthian, likely refers to Septimius Severus' First Parthian War in 195, in which he subjugated Adiabene, Osrhoene, and Hatra.