Caracalla Denarius Ancient Roman Empire Silver Coin 201AD RIC 141

Obverse: ANTONINVS PIVS AVG, Bust of Caracalla, laureate, draped, right
Reverse: RECTOR ORBIS, Sol, radiate, naked except for cloak over left shoulder, standing front, head left, holding globe in extended right hand and spear in left hand
Date: c. 201-206 A.D.
ID: RIC IV Caracalla 141
Size: 20mm diameter, 3.55g weight
Composition: Silver

Caracalla was a cruel and tyrannical leader according to ancient historians. He and his brother Geta became co-emperors in 211 A.D. upon their father's death. The two brothers had a fierce hatred of one another, which culminated in Caracalla having Geta stabbed to death later that year and declaring himself sole emperor (then massacring 20,000 of Geta's friends and supporters). 

Caracalla spent nearly his entire reign campaigning with his armies, and styled himself a soldier-emperor. His coins generally depict him with an intimidating scowl and a short-cropped military haircut. Caracalla met his end in 217 A.D. (29 years old) at the sword of a common Roman soldier, who was angry that Caracalla had not approved his promotion to centurion.