Denarius - Elagabalus (FORTVNA REDVX; Fortuna) (218-222) front Denarius - Elagabalus (FORTVNA REDVX; Fortuna) (218-222) back
Denarius - Elagabalus (FORTVNA REDVX; Fortuna) (218-222) photo
© Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen (CC BY-NC 4.0 DE)

Denarius - Elagabalus FORTVNA REDVX; Fortuna

 
Silver 3.2 g 17 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
3.2 g
Diameter
17 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#276846
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Fortuna, wearing modius, draped, seated left, holding patera in right hand and cornucopiae in left hand; beneath seat, wheel.

Script: Latin

Lettering: FORTVNA REDVX

Translation:
Fortuna Redux.
Fortune that brings back [the Emperor in safety].

Comment

Mass varies: 2.666–3.72 g;

Example of this type:
Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The reverse side of the coin features Fortuna, the Roman goddess of luck and prosperity, holding a rudder and a cornucopia. This symbolism suggests that Elagabalus, who was known for his extravagance and decadence, may have been attempting to promote himself as a bringer of good fortune and prosperity to the Roman people through his coinage.