bpv_521221 - SEVERUS ALEXANDER Tétradrachme

SEVERUS ALEXANDER

(05/10/221-03/22/235)

Caesar

Alexander Severus, whose real name is Gessius Bassianus Alexianus, was born in 208 in Caesarea in Phenicia. He is the son of Julia Mamée and Gessius Marcianus, procurator of Syrian origin. He is also the grandson of Julia Maesa, sister of Julia Domna, wife of Septimius Severus and mother of Caracalla and Geta. Alexander Severus was adopted by his cousin Elagabalus on May 10, 221. When the latter was assassinated on March 13, 222, Alexander Severus was chosen to succeed him.