Numerian as Caesar, AE Antoninianus, Numerian as Caesar, Antioch Mint, 282-283 AD

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Description

Roman Imperial, Numerian as Caesar, AE Antoninianus (bronze, 4g, 20.1mm), Numerian as Caesar, Antioch Mint, 282-283 AD
Obv: IMP C M AVR NVMERIANVS NOB C; bust radiate, draped, cuirassed of Numerian right
Rev: VIRTVS AV-GGG; Numerian standing right, holding sceptre and receiving Victory on globe from Jupiter standing left, holding long sceptre; EĪ” in between; XXI in exergue
Ref: RIC 378 Rarity/Choice: Scarce (Rev. Letter), aEF
Note: Marcus Aurelius Numerianus, known as Numerian, was the younger son of the Roman Emperor Carus and served as Caesar under his father. He was elevated to this position in AD 282 and continued in this role until AD 283. Numerian’s brief period of rule was part of the tumultuous period known as the Crisis of the Third Century, characterized by rapid changes in leadership and frequent usurpations. Following the death of Carus, Numerian was proclaimed Augustus but died under mysterious circumstances while returning from a campaign against the Persians in AD 284. The obverse features a radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Numerian facing right. The radiate crown signifies his semi-divine status and is a characteristic feature of the Antoninianus denomination. The drapery and cuirass (a military breastplate) emphasize his role as both a ruler and a military leader, reflecting the militarized nature of Roman leadership during this turbulent period. “IMP C M AVR NVMERIANVS NOB C” stands for “Imperator Caesar Marcus Aurelius Numerianus Nobilissimus Caesar.” This title emphasizes Numerianā€™s rank as Caesar, a junior emperor, and his noble status within the imperial family. The reverse depicts Emperor Carus standing to the left, handing Victory on a globe to his son Carinus, who stands to the right. The globe, a symbol of world dominion, represents the transfer of power and success from Carus to Carinus. The presence of Victory, the Roman goddess who personifies success in battle, reinforces the idea of military triumph and the continuation of imperial authority. “VIRTVS AVGG” translates to “The Virtue of the Emperors.” The plural “AVGG” refers to both Numerian and his father Carus, indicating their shared imperial virtues and authority. This coin not only served as a means of economic transaction but also played a crucial role in communicating the virtues and legitimacy of the ruling family, even as the empire faced ongoing threats to its stability.

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