Most ancient collectors here know I have been looking for a "horned bust" of Elagabalus after close to a year after Doug told me about it. After some losses to some and unhappiness with the looks of others I finally got one that met my top 3 things I wanted in it. Got it for about the going rate but its nice to have the "Emesa Stone" lifted off my shoulders.:hail: ELAGABALUS (218-222 A.D.) AR Denarius Rome mint. Struck 220-222 AD. O: IMP ANTONINVS PIVS AVG, laureate and draped bust right, horn on head. R: SACRED DEI SOLIS ELAGAB, Elagabalus standing right, holding branch (?) and sacrificing from patera over lighted altar; star in right field. RIC IV 131; BMCRE 225 note; RSC 246 19mm 3.5g
This one has nice flow lines, something I always like ancients to have. The coin is pretty nice overall. stainless
Beautiful coin, I applaud your desire to find such a nice piece. Best of luck to your future endeavors!
Congratulations on your acquisition. I also have one of Elagabalus' coins with the "horn": Elagabalus - Denarius - Syrian Priest Horned, laureate, and draped bust right IMP ANTONINVS PIVS AVG Elagabalus in Syrian priest dress standing left sacrificing out of patera over lighted altar, holding branch or club, star left PM TRP IIII COS III PP Struck: AD 221, Rome mint Size: 21mm Weight: 3.76gm Catalog: RIC 46 What is the meaning of the "horn"? On denarii, the "horn" was introduced in 221 at the same time as the reverse types showing the emperor in Syrian priestly dress sacrificing to his sun-god Elagabalus, and that it was a cult decoration connected with the Syrian cult of the god.
Awesome coin and congratulations! I love the history and designs of ancients but sadly they don't love me ($)...maybe someday... Until then I will just admire your coins and research, research, research!
Mat: That is one super coin. I am glad you held out for it rather than buying something less earlier. Want to trade???
Thanks for the comments. And Doug, this coin knocks out my Geta as now part of my top 3 favorites. Only my L. Valerius Flaccus & Crispina are ahead of it. I'd probably have to be in the dirt before I part with it, lol.
That one and the Emessa stone one are the two types I would really love to have from Elagabalus. Most of us know about the stone I suppose, (and the chance it could be the same stone that today all muslims worship to), but this type has lot going on. The alter, Elagabalus sacrificing, the stat which I am sure someone could inform us of the special meaning, atc. I especially love the style of Elagabalus on the reverse, its very well done on such a small space. Congrats!
