Aureus - Julia Maesa (SAECVLI FELICITAS; Felicitas) (218-222) front Aureus - Julia Maesa (SAECVLI FELICITAS; Felicitas) (218-222) back
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Aureus - Julia Maesa SAECVLI FELICITAS; Felicitas

 
Gold - -
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
Aureus (25⁄2)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Gold
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#276938
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Felicitas, draped, standing left, sacrifcing with patera in right hand over lighted altar and holding long caduceus in left hand; in right field, star.

Script: Latin

Lettering: SAECVLI FELICITAS

Unabridged legend: Saeculi Felicitas.

Translation: Age of good fortune.

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Aureus coin featuring Julia Maesa is significant because it marks a turning point in Roman history. Julia Maesa was the grandmother of the future emperor Elagabalus, who was known for his controversial reign and attempts to introduce Eastern religious practices to Rome. The coin's minting in 218-222 AD coincides with the beginning of Elagabalus' rise to power, and it is believed that the coin was minted to promote his image and legitimacy as a future emperor. This coin, therefore, serves as a tangible representation of the political and cultural shifts that were taking place in the Roman Empire during this time period.