Antoninianus - Elagabalus (MARS VICTOR; Mars) (218-222) front Antoninianus - Elagabalus (MARS VICTOR; Mars) (218-222) back
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Antoninianus - Elagabalus MARS VICTOR; Mars

 
Silver - -
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Elagabalus (Sextus Varius Avitus Basianus) (218-222)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
218-222
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#276740
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Mars, helmeted, naked except for flowing cloak, advancing right, holding transverse spear in right hand and trophy over left shoulder in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: MARS VICTOR

Translation:
Mars Victor.
Mars, the victorious.

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Antoninianus coin featuring Elagabalus (MARS VICTOR; Mars) is that it was issued during a time of significant economic and political turmoil in the Roman Empire. The coin was minted between 218 and 222 AD, during the reign of Elagabalus, who was known for his controversial and unconventional policies, including his attempts to introduce Eastern religious practices to Rome and his scandalous personal behavior. The coin's design, featuring Mars, the Roman god of war, on the reverse, may have been intended to promote the idea of military strength and power during a time of political instability. Despite the challenges faced during this period, the Roman Empire continued to issue coins like the Antoninianus, which remained an important symbol of Roman power and influence.