ELAGABALUS
AD 218-222
AE29. 15.32g, 29.5mm
MINTED: MOESIA INFERIOR, Nicopolis ad Istrum, circa AD 218-222, Novius Rufus, consular legate.
REF: Varbanov 3947 var. (obv legend)
OBVERSE: AV K M AVP ANTΩNINOC, Radiate and draped bust right.
REVERSE: VΠ NOBIOV POVΦOV NIKOΠOΛITΩN ΠPOC ICTPΩ, Nemesis standing left, holding scales and cubit-rule, wheel at her side.
 
Grade/Notes:
Very Fine. Struck on a broad, heavy flan. Dark green patina; a few light scratches and slight flatness. 
 
Historical Notes:
Following his victory over King Decebalus in the Dacian Wars (AD 101-106), Emperor Trajan reorganised the region and founded several cities, including Nicopolis, which was situated by the river Iatrus. Nicopolis flourished as a major trade centre throughout the 2nd century, though by the mid 3rd century, the region began to be increasingly subject to invasions by the barbarian tribes. The city was destroyed in AD 447 by the soldiers of Attila the Hun.