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RIC IV Macrinus 209

DocumentedSupported by at least one credible specialist source.

Record status

Individual type · research required

Issuing entity

Roman Empire

RIC IV Macrinus 209. Denomination: Sestertius. 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 victory, winged, draped seated on cuirass, right, about to inscribe shield which rests on her left knee; behind her, shield and arms, with the legend VICTORIA PARTHICA 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 was proclaimed Roman emperor in April 217 while in the eastern provinces, reigning until June 218 alongside his son Diadumenianus. Having conspired to murder his predecessor Caracalla, he became the first emperor from the equestrian class rather than the senatorial order, and he never visited Rome during his rule. Caracalla's conflicts had left the Roman Empire at war with several powers, including Parthia.

Struck at Rome, this bronze sestertius carries the obverse legend "IMP CAES M OPEL SEV MACRINVS AVG". The reverse legend "VICTORIA PARTHICA S C" accompanies an image of Victory seated upon a cuirass and preparing to inscribe a shield. This design relates to Macrinus's conflict and diplomatic dealings with Parthia, which formed part of his broader efforts to conclude his predecessor's foreign wars and achieve peace.

Physical characteristics

Material
Bronze
Denomination
Sestertius

Technical characteristics

Mint
Rome
Authority
Macrinus

Design

Obverse
Bust of Macrinus, laureate, cuirassed, right
Reverse
Victory, winged, draped seated on cuirass, right, about to inscribe shield which rests on her left knee; behind her, shield and arms
Obverse legend
IMP CAES M OPEL SEV MACRINVS AVG
Reverse legend
VICTORIA PARTHICA S C

Identification

Type reference
RIC IV Macrinus 209
Denomination and metal
Sestertius, Bronze
Obverse legend to match
IMP CAES M OPEL SEV MACRINVS AVG
Reverse legend to match
VICTORIA PARTHICA 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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