© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Æ - Elagabalus ΡΗϹΑΙΝΗϹΙωΝ Γ
- | 8 g | 20 mm |
Issuer | Rhesaena (Mesopotamia) |
---|---|
Emperor | Elagabalus (Sextus Varius Avitus Basianus) (218-222) |
Type | Standard circulation coin |
Years | 211-217 |
Weight | 8 g |
Diameter | 20 mm |
Shape | Round (irregular) |
Technique | Hammered |
Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
Demonetized | Yes |
Updated | 2024-10-06 |
Numista | N#368253 |
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Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
River god seated left, holding reed in right hand, resting left arm on urn.
Script: Greek
Lettering:
ΡΗϹΑΙΝΗϹΙⲰΝ
Γ
Comment
The obverse depicts the Emperor Caracalla according to Karel Castelin.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman Emperor Elagabalus, who was known for his controversial and unconventional reign. He was a priest of the sun god Elagabal, and his coinage often featured images related to the sun god and other deities. This particular coin, minted in Rhesaena (modern-day Iraq), shows Elagabalus wearing a radiate crown, symbolizing his connection to the sun god. Despite his unpopularity among the Roman Senate and aristocracy, Elagabalus' coinage remains a fascinating insight into his reign and the cultural influences of the time.