Denarius - Elagabalus (FIDES MILITVM; Fides) (218-222) front Denarius - Elagabalus (FIDES MILITVM; Fides) (218-222) back
Denarius - Elagabalus (FIDES MILITVM; Fides) (218-222) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Elagabalus FIDES MILITVM; Fides

 
Silver 2.5 g 19.5 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
2.5 g
Diameter
19.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#276680
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Fides, draped, standing front, head right, holding standard in right hand and vexillum in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: FIDES MILITVM

Translation:
Fides Militum.
Loyalty of the soldiers.

Comment

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Denarius - Elagabalus (FIDES MILITVM; 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 loyalty, duty, and fidelity, and her appearance on the coin may have been intended to promote the idea of loyalty to the Roman state and its rulers. 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 emphasize the importance of loyalty and fidelity during a time of political upheaval.