Numismatic

Roman Antioch BI Tetradrachm Elagabalus (218-222 AD) XF NGC

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During the turbulent years of 218 to 222 AD, the ancient provincial mint of Antioch in Syria produced this intriguing billon tetradrachm. Billon, a specialized alloy combining silver with base metal, was frequently utilized for regional coinage in the eastern reaches of the Roman Empire. This specific specimen survives in a remarkable state of preservation, having been officially certified as Extra Fine. The obverse of the coin displays a right-facing, laureate bust of the young Emperor Elagabalus, a ruler belonging to the prominent Severan dynasty. Surrounding his portrait is a traditional Greek legend, reflecting the cultural landscape of the Syrian province. On the reverse, a powerful eagle stands facing forward, clutching a military standard in its talons and holding a wreath within its beak, a classic symbol of Roman authority in the East.