SYRIA, Seleucis and Pieria. Laodicea ad Mare. Septimius Severus, 193-211. Tetradrachm (Silver, 27 mm, 15.35 g, 12 h), 207-208. AYT KAI - CEOYHPOC - CE Laureate and draped bust of Septimius Severus to right. Rev. ΔHMAPX EΞ VPATOC TO Γ Eagle standing facing with spread wings, turning his head to left with a wreath in beak; between eagle's legs, star. McAlee, Severan Group 2, 16. Prieur 1140. Well-struck and nicely toned. Extremely fine.

From a European collection, acquired privately from Elsen in Brussels in 1988.

The portrait of Septimius Severus on this coin is both elegant and a rather lively. He seems to have sparkling eyes and a pleasant expression, albeit one that could become extremely angry and dangerous if provoked.