Elagabalus also known as Heliogabalus was Roman emperor from 218 to 222. Upon becoming emperor he took the name Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus.

As an emperor, Elagabalus issued a variety of coins in Gold; Silver as well as in copper. The coins depict an excellent workmanship and are considered to be one of the most important pieces of evidence to study the contemporary society, politics, economy and culture.

Unusual among them is a 7.53 grams Gold Aureus. Issued in the year 2018, coin was minted at Rome. The obverse of the coin depicts Bust of Elagabalus facing right wearing a wreath over his head. The bust is surrounded by the legend “IMP CAES M AVR ANTONINVS AVG” which means Emperor Caesar Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, August.

The reverse of the coin is very unusual one. Laureate emperor is in the centre with two soldiers on either side. The king is in the military attire and holding transversal spear with right hand. The soldier on the right is looking towards the emperor and holding a standard and a shield. A soldier on the left is advancing behind the emperor, holding a standard. The background shows another standard. All is within lettering “FIDES MILITVM” meaning Faith of the soldiers.

Image Courtesy: https://en.numista.com