Caracalla, born Lucius Septimius Bassianus, ruled as Caesar from AD 196 to 198 before becoming Augustus. During his time as Caesar, a notable silver denarius was minted at Rome featuring his bare-headed and draped bust facing right with the inscription “M AVR ANTON CAES PONTIF.” The reverse of this denarius depicts Mars the Avenger, the Roman god of war, usually brandishing a spear and shield, symbolizing military strength and protection, under the inscription “MARTI VLTORI” (to Mars the Avenger).

This denarius, struck between AD 196-198, is significant because it displays Caracalla in his earlier role before his sole rule as emperor. The Mars reverse reflects the political and military propaganda of the time, emphasizing the might of the Severan dynasty and their divine favor in war. The imagery also alludes to Caracalla’s role as protector of the empire and successor to his father Septimius Severus.

Coins like this are sought by collectors of Roman Imperial coinage due to their historical importance and symbolism. The silver denarius was a standard Roman silver coin, approximately 17-18 mm in diameter and weighing between 3 to 3.5 grams. Examples with good strike detail and preservation of both the obverse portrait and Mars reverse tend to command higher interest and value in the numismatic market.

Caracalla’s coinage as Caesar is less common than his later issues as Augustus, making such denarii an important collectible for enthusiasts of Roman imperial history. The Mars type specifically highlights the military prestige and divine justification used to bolster the Severan rule during a period of political transition.

In summary, the Caracalla as Caesar AR Denarius from the Rome mint with Mars reverse, struck between AD 196-198, is a historically significant Roman silver coin. It depicts Caracalla’s early imperial image alongside the powerful symbol of Mars, making it a prized piece for collectors of ancient Roman coins and Severan dynasty coinage.