© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Tetradrachm - Elagabalus ΔΗΜΑΡΧ ΕΞ ΥΠΑΤΟϹ ΤΟ Β Δ Ε
219 year| Silver | 13 g | 26 mm |
| Issuer | Laodicea ad Mare (Syria Coele) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Elagabalus (Sextus Varius Avitus Basianus) (218-222) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 219 |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 13 g |
| Diameter | 26 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#413998 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Eagle standing right, head left, holding wreath in beak and spreading wings; star between legs.
Script: Greek
Lettering: ΔΗΜΑΡΧ ΕΞ ΥΠΑΤΟϹ ΤΟ Β Δ Ε
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 Elagabal, and his coinage often featured imagery related to the sun god and other deities. This particular coin, minted in Laodicea ad Mare (modern-day Syria), shows Elagabalus wearing a radiate crown and a cloak, with the inscription "ΔΗΜΑΡΧ ΕΞ ΥΠΑΤΟϹ ΤΟ Β Δ Ε" (meaning "of the people, by the council, of the victorious Elagabalus"). Despite his unpopularity among the Roman Senate and people, Elagabalus' coinage remains a fascinating glimpse into his reign and the cultural influences of the time.
