Denarius - Elagabalus (SPEI PERPETVAE; Spes) (218-222) front Denarius - Elagabalus (SPEI PERPETVAE; Spes) (218-222) back
Denarius - Elagabalus (SPEI PERPETVAE; Spes) (218-222) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Elagabalus SPEI PERPETVAE; Spes

 
Silver 5.9 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
5.9 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#276863
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Spes, draped, walking left, holding flower in extended right hand and raising fold of skirt with left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: SPEI PERPETVAE

Unabridged legend: Spei Perpetuae.

Translation: Eternal hope.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.47–27 g;
Diameter varies: 18.5–20.9 mm;

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 (SPEI PERPETVAE; Spes) coin is that it features the goddess Spes (Spes) on the reverse side, which is an unusual depiction for a Roman coin. Spes is the goddess of hope and is often shown holding a flower or a torch, symbolizing the light and positivity that hope brings. This coin is a rare example of a Roman coin that highlights the importance of hope and optimism in ancient Roman culture.