As - Elagabalus (MARS VICTOR S C; Mars) (218-222) front As - Elagabalus (MARS VICTOR S C; Mars) (218-222) back
As - Elagabalus (MARS VICTOR S C; Mars) (218-222) photo
© Münzsammlung des Seminars für Alte Geschichte, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 DE)

As - Elagabalus MARS VICTOR S C; Mars

 
Bronze 8.8 g 25 mm
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
As (1⁄32)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
8.8 g
Diameter
25 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#277052
Rarity index
100%

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 S C

Translation:
Mars Victor. Senatus Consultum.
Mars, the victorious. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Example of this type:
Münzsammlung des Seminars für Alte Geschichte, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a rare representation of the Roman god Mars on the reverse side, which is unusual for coins of this era. Mars is depicted standing to the left, holding a spear and a shield, while the legend "MARS VICTOR S C" (Mars, victorious) surrounds him. This representation of Mars highlights the importance of the god of war in Roman culture and the efforts of Emperor Elagabalus to promote his own military prowess through coinage.