Elagabalus Denarius Victory Silver Coin 221AD RIC 45b

Obverse: IMP ANTONINVS PIVS AVG, Bust of Elagabalus, laureate, draped, right Reverse: P M TR P IIII COS III P P, Victory, winged, draped, flying right, holding diadem (or garland) with both hands; to either side, shield; in field, star Year: 221 A.D., RIC 45b Composition: Silver, 17.5mm diameter, 2.77g weight Elagabalus became emperor at the age of 14, following the assassination of Emperor Macrinus. He was notorious for his eccentric behavior, which included adopting the cult of the sun god Elagabal (also known as Elagabalus) as the state religion, hence the name he is now known by. The emperor's disregard for traditional Roman values and his preference for eastern customs led to increasing dissatisfaction among the Roman elite and the military. Amidst growing unrest, Elagabalus was deposed in 222 AD in favor of his cousin Severus Alexander. He and his mother were killed shortly thereafter. Elagabalus' reign is often seen as a period of turmoil and excess, marked by disregard for traditional Roman customs and institutions, though it's possible ancient writers fabricated many of the more sordid accusations against him.