Elagabalus Roman Silver Denarius (AD 218-222) NGC

Own a certified Roman Silver Denarius of Elagabalus (AD 218–222), authenticated and slabbed by NGC. This coin offers a vivid connection to one of the most controversial and infamous figures in Roman imperial history.

Elagabalus, also known as Heliogabalus, assumed the throne at just 14 years old after a palace coup orchestrated by his powerful family. Despite his youth, his reign quickly became notorious. Rather than focusing on military campaigns or governance, Elagabalus indulged in religious extravagance and personal excess, earning a reputation for decadence that later historians, including Edward Gibbon, would condemn in vivid terms.

He styled himself as the high priest of the eastern sun god Elagabal and sought to elevate his deity above traditional Roman gods — a move that alienated Rome’s political and religious establishment. His court became synonymous with extravagance, scandal, and a disregard for Roman tradition, fueling the lasting stereotype of the "depraved Roman orgy."

Ultimately, Elagabalus’ increasingly erratic behavior and disregard for Roman sensibilities led to his assassination at the age of 18. His short, chaotic reign remains one of the most colorful episodes of the Severan dynasty.

Denarii of Elagabalus typically feature his youthful, radiate-crowned portrait on the obverse and religious or military themes on the reverse.

Certified by NGC, this Silver Denarius captures the turbulence and drama of one of Rome’s most controversial reigns — a perfect addition for collectors interested in the Severan dynasty, imperial scandal, or Roman decadence.