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Orbis Collectibles

RIC IV Macrinus 181

DocumentedSupported by at least one credible specialist source.

Record status

Individual type · research required

Issuing entity

Roman Empire

RIC IV Macrinus 181. Denomination: As. Authority: Macrinus. Mint: Rome. The obverse shows bust of Macrinus, laureate, cuirassed, right, with the legend IMP CAES M OPEL SEV MACRINVS AVG.

The reverse shows fides, head right, standing front, holding two standards in hands, right foot on helmet, with the legend FIDES MILITVM S C.

Evidence at a glance

Linked sources
2
Photograph views
3
Catalogue references
1

Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.

Historical context

Macrinus served as praetorian prefect under Emperor Caracalla before conspiring against him and having him murdered. Proclaimed emperor in the eastern provinces in April 217 and confirmed by the Senate, Macrinus reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus until June 218. Although he ruled the Roman Empire, Macrinus never visited Rome during his reign, as he was overthrown following a rebellion supported by rebelling Roman legions.

This bronze as was struck at the mint of Rome during Macrinus' reign. The obverse bears his title with the legend IMP CAES M OPEL SEV MACRINVS AVG, while the reverse depicts Fides holding two standards with her foot on a helmet, accompanied by the legend FIDES MILITVM S C. Macrinus inherited conflicts with several kingdoms, and his fiscal reforms and monetary costs produced unrest in the Roman military, which ultimately contributed to his overthrow at the Battle of Antioch.

Physical characteristics

Material
Bronze
Denomination
As

Technical characteristics

Mint
Rome
Authority
Macrinus

Design

Obverse
Bust of Macrinus, laureate, cuirassed, right
Reverse
Fides, head right, standing front, holding two standards in hands, right foot on helmet
Obverse legend
IMP CAES M OPEL SEV MACRINVS AVG
Reverse legend
FIDES MILITVM S C

Identification

Type reference
RIC IV Macrinus 181
Denomination and metal
As, Bronze
Obverse legend to match
IMP CAES M OPEL SEV MACRINVS AVG
Reverse legend to match
FIDES MILITVM S C
Source note
Type description from the American Numismatic Society's Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE); individual specimens differ in die, flan size, weight and wear, and legend breaks may vary.

Documentation checklist

Denomination
Recorded
Issue or mint date
Recorded
Material
Recorded
Weight
Research required
Mint or printer
Recorded
Mint or printer mark
Research required
Catalogue reference
Recorded
Attached photograph (check rights)
Recorded

Recorded means a field is present, not independently verified. Read its wording, supporting source and the entry’s confidence level.

Catalogue references

Research required

  • Editorial verification required.
  • Weight, diameter and mint marks require specimen-level evidence.
  • Museum specimen photographs are linked by the source; local photographs and reuse rights remain unverified.
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