Syria, Seleucis and Pieria, Antioch, Elagabalus, AR Tetradrachm, 219 AD – Eagle

$170.00

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SKU: R2.8 Categories: ,

Description

Roman Provincial, Syria, Seleucis and Pieria, Antioch, Elagabalus, 218-222 AD, AR Tetradrachm (silver, 14.4g, 26.2mm), 219 AD
Obv: AYT K M A ANTⲰNЄINOC CЄB; Laureate head of Elagabalus to right, with slight drapery on his left shoulder
Rev: ΔHMAPΧ ЄΞ YΠATOC TO B / Δ – Є; Eagle with spread wings standing facing, head to left and holding wreath in beak; star between the eagle’s legs
Ref: Prieur 249; McAlee 758 Rarity/Choice: Common, aEF (impressive bust, well struck)
Note: Elagabalus, born Varius Avitus Bassianus, ascended to the Roman throne at the age of 14, largely due to the political machinations of his grandmother, Julia Maesa. His reign was marked by religious and cultural eccentricities, most notably his devotion to the Syrian sun god Elagabal, from whom he took his name. Despite his initial popularity, his unorthodox practices and disregard for Roman traditions led to his downfall and assassination in AD 222. The Tetradrachm of Elagabalus minted in Antioch during AD 219 provides valuable insights into the ways Roman emperors utilized coinage to project their image and authority. The obverse, with its portrait of the youthful emperor, underscores his divine favor and imperial status. The reverse, featuring the eagle and star, reinforces themes of victory and divine legitimacy, crucial for maintaining support among the provinces. This coin not only facilitated economic transactions but also served as a medium for communicating the emperor’s power and divine endorsement throughout the empire.