The reverse of this denarius depicts a defeated Parthian captive, advertising Roman anticipated victories over Parthian dominated Armenia (A.D. 163) and the western Parthian Empire (A.D. 165-166), while the obverse proclaims Verus as Armeniacus and Parthicus Maximus for these conquests. Despite the presentation of Verus as the great war leader the type and titles are largely propaganda. Verus spent most of the war enjoying the luxuries of Antioch while his legates led the legions into battle in Armenia and Mesopotamia.
Lucius Verus, 161-169. Denarius (Silver, 18 mm, 2.98 g ), Rome, 165. L VERVS AVG ARM PARTH MAX Laureate head of Lucius Verus to right. Rev. TR P V IMP III COS II Parthian captive seated right, hands tied behind back; trophy to right. BMC 385. Cohen 273. RIC 540 VF+
