Macrinus, struck at the Rome mint during his reign, AD 217-218

Denarius of Emperor Macrinus, struck at the Rome mint during his reign, AD 217-218. 3.09 g; diameter 19 mm. Obverse legend IMP C M OPEL SEV MACRINVS AVG surrounds a laureate, draped bust of Macrinus facing right, finely detailed beard and hair. Reverse legend PONTIF MAX TR P COS P P encircles Jupiter standing left, nude but for cloak over shoulder, grasping thunderbolt in right hand and vertical sceptre in left.  Primary reference: RIC IV.2 Macrinus 15.

Macrinus was the first emperor to rise from the equestrian order, assuming power after orchestrating the assassination of Caracalla. His brief rule faced military mutiny and fiscal strain, conditions reflected in the limited output of his silver coinage. Denarii like this circulated widely while supporting legionary payments on the eastern frontier.