Denarius - Elagabalus (FIDES EXERCITVS; Fides) (218-222) front Denarius - Elagabalus (FIDES EXERCITVS; Fides) (218-222) back
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Denarius - Elagabalus FIDES EXERCITVS; Fides

 
Silver 2.8 g 20 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
Denarius (½)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.8 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#276670
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Fides, draped, seated left, holding eagle in right hand and standard in left hand; before her, standard.

Script: Latin

Lettering: FIDES EXERCITVS

Translation:
Fides Exercitus.
Loyalty of the army.

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Denarius - Elagabalus (FIDES EXERCITVS; Fides) coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Fides (Fidelity) on the reverse side, which was a unique design choice for a Roman coin during that time period. Fides was a minor goddess who personified the concept of loyalty and fidelity, and her depiction on the coin may have been intended to emphasize the importance of loyalty to the Roman state and its leaders. This coin was minted during the reign of Emperor Elagabalus, who was known for his controversial and unconventional rule, and the image of Fides may have been a way to promote his image as a strong and reliable leader.