RIC 297c corr.

Ruler: Caracalla, 198-217 AD

Denomination: antoninianus

Obverse: ANTONINVS PIVS AVG GERM; Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right.

Reverse: P M TR P XX COS IIII P P / VIC PART; Victory seated right on cuirass, holding shield inscribed VO / XX; to right, trophy between two bound captives.

RIC IV 297c corr. (VOT XX on shield).

Mint: Rome, 217 AD

Weight: 5.40 g.
Diameter: 21 mm.

Note: extremely rare and desirable reverse type!

This coin was struck in anticipation of a Roman victory over the Parthians coinciding with the beginning of Caracalla’s twentieth year as Augustus. Hoping to take advantage of a divided Parthian kingdom, in early AD 216 AD, Caracalla invaded, pushing the Parthians eastward. Caracalla then withdrew to winter in Edessa. Caracalla’s final victory, however, would never happen, for, while on a trip to Carrhae in the spring of AD 217, the emperor was assassinated by a member of his bodyguard.

Collection : 22 Caracalla