© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Elagabalus SACERD DEI SOLIS ELAGAB S C
| Bronze | 20.9 g | 30 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Elagabalus (Sextus Varius Avitus Basianus) (218-222) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 218-222 |
| Value | Sestertius (⅛) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 20.9 g |
| Diameter | 30 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#277059 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Elagabalus, in Syrian priestly robes, standing left, sacrificing out of patera in right hand over lighted altar, holding club in left hand; in field, star.
Script: Latin
Lettering: SACERD DEI SOLIS ELAGAB S C
Translation:
Sacerdos Dei Solis Elagabalus. Senatus Consultum.
Elagabalus, priest of God Sol. Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 18.64–24.67 g;Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman emperor Elagabalus, who was known for his controversial and unconventional reign. He was a priest of the sun god Sol Invictus, and his coinage often featured imagery related to the cult of the sun god, such as the image of Sol Invictus on the reverse of this sestertius. Despite his unpopularity among the Roman Senate and traditionalists, Elagabalus' coinage remains a popular collector's item among numismatists today.
