INDVLGENTIA AVGG IN CARTH: The indulgence (or favour) of the Emperors toward Carthage.
This inscription commemorates the Emperors’ act of generosity or pardon toward the city of Carthage; a clear message of Imperial benevolence proudly broadcast through coinage.
Septimius Severus was of African origin and, according to Ulpianus, attached to the land of his birth, conferred benefits (among others the ius Italicum) on Carthage and Utica.
Septimus Severus seized power after the death of Pertinax in 193 AD ('Year of the Five Emperors'). He travelled to Britain in 208 AD and strengthened Hadrian's Wall. He is considered a strong and able ruler, the Roman Empire reached its greatest extent under his reign. He was succeeded by his sons Caracalla and Geta.
Dea Caelestis, the “Heavenly Goddess,” was the Romanised form of the Carthaginian goddess Tanit, revered as the protectress of Carthage. Worshipped as a celestial mother and bringer of rain and fertility, she was often depicted riding a lion, echoing the imagery of Cybele. Under Roman rule, her cult symbolised the fusion of Punic and Roman religion, embodying both Carthage’s heritage and imperial favour.
