Elagabalus, 218-222, Antoninianus

Elagabalus, antoninianus, AR, reign 218–222, Rome mint, struck 218–222, 4.33 g, 23 mm. Obverse with radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Elagabalus right, legend IMP CAES ANTONINVS AVG. Reverse VICTOR ANTONINI AVG, Victory advancing left holding wreath and palm. Even strike with clear legends and principal devices; minor weakness possible at the extremities typical of the issue. RIC IV Elagabalus 152.

This antoninianus belongs to the early phase of the third-century radiate denomination introduced under Caracalla and continued by Elagabalus to meet expanding military and administrative expenditures. The reverse type proclaims the “victory of Antoninus,” employing the dynastic name Antoninus adopted by Elagabalus to reinforce legitimacy and continuity with the Severan house during a period of political instability and frequent challenges to imperial authority. The Victory imagery reflects standard imperial messaging aimed at the army and urban population, emphasizing military success and the emperor’s role as guarantor of Roman dominance.