Ancient Rome 217 AD Diadumenianus Silver Antoninianus Almost Uncirculated (AU50) SCARCE

Ancient Rome 217AD Diadumenianus Silver Antoninianus Almost Uncirculated (AU50) SCARCE

Diadumenianus (Marcus Opellius Antoninus Diadumenianus) was the young son of Macrinus and briefly held the title of co-emperor during a turbulent period in 217–218 AD. Initially proclaimed Caesar and later elevated to Augustus in an effort to legitimize his father’s rule, his position was short-lived as support shifted to the rival claimant Elagabalus. Following Macrinus’s defeat, Diadumenianus attempted to flee east but was captured and executed in 218 AD while still a child, around age 9. After his death and the death of his father, the Senate declared both to be enemies of Rome and thus their names were struck from records and their images destroyed.

A large number of coins were struck for Diadumenianus, though fewer in number than for his father. Denarii have been found to depict him as augustus, though no other denominations have been found at this time. It has been suggested that, following the news of Macrinus' defeat, many of Diadumenianus' coins were melted down.

Obverse: Crowned, draped, and cuirassed bust of Diadumenianus facing right, with the legend around.
Reverse: Diadumenianus standing facing left, holding a baton in his right hand and a sceptre in his laft hand, with two standards to his right, and the legend around.

Specifications:
Emperor: Diadumenian (Marcus Opellius Antoninus Diadumenianus) (217-218)
Composition: Silver
Weight: Approx. 4.7 g
Diameter: Approx: 22 mm
Mint: Rome