Elagabalus Antioch Denarius Mars Silver Coin 219AD RIC 172

Obverse: ANTONINVS PIVS FEL AVG, Bust of Elagabalus, laureate, draped, cuirassed, right
Reverse: PONT MAX T P II COS II, Mars, helmeted, advancing left, holding laurel-branch in right hand and trophy in right hand
Date: 219 A.D
ID: RIC IV Elagabalus 172 var. (reverse inscription)
Size: 18.5mm diameter, 3.10g weight
Composition: Silver

A scarce type

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.