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Image search results - "Julianus"

22 Didius JulianusROMAN IMPERIAL
Didius Julianus
AD 193
Æ Sestertius (28mm, 19.82 g, 11h). Rome mint.

Laureate head right / Fortuna standing left, holding rudder set on globe and cornucopia.

RIC IV 15. Fine, brown patina, scratches
Ex CNG
RI01286 commentsSosius

(0193) DIDIUS JULIANUS193 AD
AE Sestertius, 26 mm; 15.36 g
O: Laureate head right
R: Fortuna standing left, holding rudder set on globe
Rome mint; RIC IV 15; Banti 5. Rare
ex CNGlaney

01 - Julian II - Silver Siliqua - VowsRoman Empire
Emperor Julian II (355 - 363 AD, sole reign from 361 - 363 AD)
Silver Siliqua, Constantinople Mint, struck 361 - 363 AD.

obv: DN JULIANUS P F AUG - Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from the front.
rev: VOTIS V MULTIS X within wreath, 'P CON' in exergue.

Size: 19 mm
Weight: 1.9 Grams
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01 - Julian II - Silver Siliqua - Vows - 001 Roman Empire, 4th century AD Silver Siliqua.
Emperor Julian II (355 - 363 AD, sole reign from 361 - 363 AD)
Silver Siliqua, struck 361 - 363 AD, Constantinople Mint, Prima Officinae.

obverse: " DN JULIANUS P F AUG " - Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from the front.

reverse: " VOTIS V MULTIS X " - within wreath, '' P CON '' in exergue (below), for Constantinople mint.

Size: 19 dia.
Weight: 1.9 Grams
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01 - Julian II - Silver Siliqua - Vows - Reverse.Roman Empire
Emperor Julian II (355 - 363 AD, sole reign from 361 - 363 AD)
Silver Siliqua, Constantinople Mint, struck 361 - 363 AD.

obv: DN JULIANUS P F AUG - Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from the front.
rev: VOTIS V MULTIS X within wreath, 'P CON' in exergue.

Size: 19 mm
Weight: 1.9 Grams
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01 - Julian II - Silver Siliqua - Vows - Reverse. BRIGHT.Roman Empire
Emperor Julian II (355 - 363 AD, sole reign from 361 - 363 AD)
Silver Siliqua, Constantinople Mint, struck 361 - 363 AD.

obv: DN JULIANUS P F AUG - Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from the front.
rev: VOTIS V MULTIS X within wreath, 'P CON' in exergue.

Size: 19 mm
Weight: 1.9 Grams
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Slightly off color photo; too much lighting.
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023a. Didius JulianusEmperor 28 March to 2 June 193

In what most Roman historians viewed as the nadir of the Empire, after the murder of Pertinax, two rich politicians, Sulpicianus and Didius Julianus, went to the Praetorian camp, where the Praetorians auctioned the throne to whoever would provide them the largest donatives. Didius won and became the Emperor. His means of achieving the throne led to thorough disgust by the leaders of the legions, and three commanders rose against him. He was deposed by the senate and was murdered.lawrence c

023a01. Didius JulianusAE Sestertius. Obv: IMP CAES M DID SEVER IVLIAN AVG, laureate head right. Rev: P M TR P COS S-C, Fortuna standing left, holding rudder on globe and cornucopia. RIC 15, Cohen 12.
lawrence c

023b. Manlia ScantillaWife of Didius Julianus. She survived his assassination.
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023c. Didia ClaraDaughter of Didius Julianus. She also survived his death.lawrence c

04 - Personalities of the EmpireCommodus, Crispina, Pertinax, Didius Julianus, Manlia Scantilla, Didia Clara, Pescennius Níger, Clodius Albinus, Septimius Severus, Julia Domna, Caracalla, Plautilla, Geta and Macrinusmdelvalle

043 Didius Julianus. AR Denariusobv: IMP CAES M DID_IVLIAN AVG laur. head r.
rev: CONCORD MILIT Concordia std. l. holding legionary eagle and standard2 commentshill132

084 - DIDIA CLARADidia Clarawas a daughter and only child to the Roman Emperor Didius Julianus and Empress Manlia Scantilla.

for obverse, reverse and coin details click hereshanxi

108. Didius Julianus193 A.D. - The Year of Five Emperors. On 1 January, the Senate selected Pertinax, against his will, to succeed the late Commodus as Emperor. The Praetorian Guard assassinated him on 28 March and auctioned the throne to the highest bidder, Didius Julianus, who offered 300 million sesterces. Outraged by the Praetorians, legions in Illyricum select Septimius Severus as emperor; in Britannia the legions select their governor Clodius Albinus, and in Syria the legions select their governor Pescennius Niger. On 1 June Septimius Severus entered the capital, put Julianus put to death and replaced the Praetorian Guard with his own troops. Clodius Albinus allied with Severus and accepted the title of Caesar. Pescennius Niger was defeated, killed and his head displayed in Rome.

SH67895. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC VI 14, BMCRE V 20, Cohen 3, Cayon III 1, SRCV II 6075, aF, weight 19.437 g, maximum diameter 27.6 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, obverse IMP CAES M DID SEVER IVLIAN AVG, laureate head right; reverse CONCORD MILIT, S - C, Concordia Militum standing half left, flanked by legionary eagle before in right and standard behind in left.

Ex-FORVM

1 commentsecoli

108a MANLIA SCANTILLAAE sestertius. Rome mint.
MANL SCANTILLA AVG. Draped bust right / IVNO REGINA SC. Juno standing left, holding patera and sceptre; peacock at feet. RIC IV 18b (Didius Julianus). VERY RARE

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1409a, Julian II "the Philosopher," February 360 - 26 June 363 A.D.Julian II, A.D. 360-363; RIC 167; VF; 2.7g, 20mm; Constantinople mint; Obverse: DN FL CL IVLIANVS P F AVG, helmeted & cuirassed bust right, holding spear & shield; Reverse: VOT X MVLT XX in four lines within wreath; CONSPB in exergue; Attractive green patina. Ex Nemesis.

De Imperatoribus Romanis,
An Online Encyclopedia of Roman Emperors

Julian the Apostate (360-363 A.D.)

Walter E. Roberts, Emory University
Michael DiMaio, Jr., Salve Regina University

Introduction

The emperor Flavius Claudius Julianus reigned from 360 to 26 June 363, when he was killed fighting against the Persians. Despite his short rule, his emperorship was pivotal in the development of the history of the later Roman empire. This essay is not meant to be a comprehensive look at the various issues central to the reign of Julian and the history of the later empire. Rather, this short work is meant to be a brief history and introduction for the general reader. Julian was the last direct descendent of the Constantinian line to ascend to the purple, and it is one of history's great ironies that he was the last non-Christian emperor. As such, he has been vilified by most Christian sources, beginning with John Chrysostom and Gregory Nazianzus in the later fourth century. This tradition was picked up by the fifth century Eusebian continuators Sozomen, Socrates Scholasticus, and Theodoret and passed on to scholars down through the 20th century. Most contemporary sources, however, paint a much more balanced picture of Julian and his reign. The adoption of Christianity by emperors and society, while still a vital concern, was but one of several issues that concerned Julian.

It is fortunate that extensive writings from Julian himself exist, which help interpret his reign in the light of contemporary evidence. Still extant are some letters, several panegyrics, and a few satires. Other contemporary sources include the soldier Ammianus Marcellinus' history, correspondence between Julian and Libanius of Antioch, several panegyrics, laws from the Theodosian Code, inscriptions, and coinage. These sources show Julian's emphasis on restoration. He saw himself as the restorer of the traditional values of Roman society. Of course much of this was rhetoric, meant to defend Julian against charges that he was a usurper. At the same time this theme of restoration was central to all emperors of the fourth century. Julian thought that he was the one emperor who could regain what was viewed as the lost glory of the Roman empire. To achieve this goal he courted select groups of social elites to get across his message of restoration. This was the way that emperors functioned in the fourth century. By choosing whom to include in the sharing of power, they sought to shape society.

Early Life

Julian was born at Constantinople in 331. His father was Julius Constantius, half-brother of the emperor Constantine through Constantius Chlorus, and his mother was Basilina, Julius' second wife. Julian had two half-brothers via Julius' first marriage. One of these was Gallus, who played a major role in Julian's life. Julian appeared destined for a bright future via his father's connection to the Constantinian house. After many years of tense relations with his three half-brothers, Constantine seemed to have welcomed them into the fold of the imperial family. From 333 to 335, Constantine conferred a series of honors upon his three half-siblings, including appointing Julius Constantius as one of the consuls for 335. Julian's mother was equally distinguished. Ammianus related that she was from a noble family. This is supported by Libanius, who claimed that she was the daughter of Julius Julianus, a Praetorian Prefect under Licinius, who was such a model of administrative virtue that he was pardoned and honored by Constantine.

Despite the fact that his mother died shortly after giving birth to him, Julian experienced an idyllic early childhood. This ended when Constantius II conducted a purge of many of his relatives shortly after Constantine's death in 337, particularly targeting the families of Constantine's half-brothers. ulian and Gallus were spared, probably due to their young age. Julian was put under the care of Mardonius, a Scythian eunuch who had tutored his mother, in 339, and was raised in the Greek philosophical tradition, and probably lived in Nicomedia. Ammianus also supplied the fact that while in Nicomedia, Julian was cared for by the local bishop Eusebius, of whom the future emperor was a distant relation. Julian was educated by some of the most famous names in grammar and rhetoric in the Greek world at that time, including Nicocles and Hecebolius. In 344 Constantius II sent Julian and Gallus to Macellum in Cappadocia, where they remained for six years. In 351, Gallus was made Caesar by Constantius II and Julian was allowed to return to Nicomedia, where he studied under Aedesius, Eusebius, and Chrysanthius, all famed philosophers, and was exposed to the Neo-Platonism that would become such a prominent part of his life. But Julian was most proud of the time he spent studying under Maximus of Ephesus, a noted Neo-Platonic philospher and theurgist. It was Maximus who completed Julian's full-scale conversion to Neo-Platonism. Later, when he was Caesar, Julian told of how he put letters from this philosopher under his pillows so that he would continue to absorb wisdom while he slept, and while campaigning on the Rhine, he sent his speeches to Maximus for approval before letting others hear them. When Gallus was executed in 354 for treason by Constantius II, Julian was summoned to Italy and essentially kept under house arrest at Comum, near Milan, for seven months before Constantius' wife Eusebia convinced the emperor that Julian posed no threat. This allowed Julian to return to Greece and continue his life as a scholar where he studied under the Neo-Platonist Priscus. Julian's life of scholarly pursuit, however, ended abruptly when he was summoned to the imperial court and made Caesar by Constantius II on 6 November 355.

Julian as Caesar

Constantius II realized an essential truth of the empire that had been evident since the time of the Tetrarchy--the empire was too big to be ruled effectively by one man. Julian was pressed into service as Caesar, or subordinate emperor, because an imperial presence was needed in the west, in particular in the Gallic provinces. Julian, due to the emperor's earlier purges, was the only viable candidate of the imperial family left who could act as Caesar. Constantius enjoined Julian with the task of restoring order along the Rhine frontier. A few days after he was made Caesar, Julian was married to Constantius' sister Helena in order to cement the alliance between the two men. On 1 December 355, Julian journeyed north, and in Augusta Taurinorum he learned that Alamannic raiders had destroyed Colonia Agrippina. He then proceeded to Vienne where he spent the winter. At Vienne, he learned that Augustudunum was also under siege, but was being held by a veteran garrison. He made this his first priority, and arrived there on 24 June 356. When he had assured himself that the city was in no immediate danger, he journeyed to Augusta Treverorum via Autessioduram, and from there to Durocortorum where he rendezvoused with his army. Julian had the army stage a series of punitive strikes around the Dieuse region, and then he moved them towards the Argentoratum/Mongontiacum region when word of barbarian incursions reached him.

From there, Julian moved on to Colonia Agrippina, and negotiated a peace with the local barbarian leaders who had assaulted the city. He then wintered at Senonae. He spent the early part of the campaigning season of 357 fighting off besiegers at Senonae, and then conducting operations around Lugdunum and Tres Tabernae. Later that summer, he encountered his watershed moment as a military general. Ammianus went into great detail about Julian's victory over seven rogue Alamannic chieftains near Argentoratum, and Julian himself bragged about it in his later writing. After this battle, the soldiers acclaimed Julian Augustus, but he rejected this title. After mounting a series of follow-up raids into Alamannic territory, he retired to winter quarters at Lutetia, and on the way defeated some Frankish raiders in the Mosa region. Julian considered this campaign one of the major events of his time as Caesar.

Julian began his 358 military campaigns early, hoping to catch the barbarians by surprise. His first target was the Franks in the northern Rhine region. He then proceeded to restore some forts in the Mosa region, but his soldiers threatened to mutiny because they were on short rations and had not been paid their donative since Julian had become Caesar. After he soothed his soldiers, Julian spent the rest of the summer negotiating a peace with various Alamannic leaders in the mid and lower Rhine areas, and retired to winter quarters at Lutetia. In 359, he prepared once again to carry out a series of punitive expeditions against the Alamanni in the Rhine region who were still hostile to the Roman presence. In preparation, the Caesar repopulated seven previously destroyed cities and set them up as supply bases and staging areas. This was done with the help of the people with whom Julian had negotiated a peace the year before. Julian then had a detachment of lightly armed soldiers cross the Rhine near Mogontiacum and conduct a guerilla strike against several chieftains. As a result of these campaigns, Julian was able to negotiate a peace with all but a handful of the Alamannic leaders, and he retired to winter quarters at Lutetia.

Of course, Julian did more than act as a general during his time as Caesar. According to Ammianus, Julian was an able administrator who took steps to correct the injustices of Constantius' appointees. Ammianus related the story of how Julian prevented Florentius, the Praetorian Prefect of Gaul, from raising taxes, and also how Julian actually took over as governor for the province of Belgica Secunda. Hilary, bishop of Poitiers, supported Ammianus' basic assessment of Julian in this regard when he reported that Julian was an able representative of the emperor to the Gallic provincials. There is also epigraphic evidence to support Julian's popularity amongst the provincial elites. An inscription found near Beneventum in Apulia reads:
"To Flavius Claudius Julianus, most noble and sanctified Caesar, from the caring Tocius Maximus, vir clarissimus, for the care of the res publica from Beneventum".

Tocius Maximus, as a vir clarissimus, was at the highest point in the social spectrum and was a leader in his local community. This inscription shows that Julian was successful in establishing a positive image amongst provincial elites while he was Caesar.

Julian Augustus

In early 360, Constantius, driven by jealousy of Julian's success, stripped Julian of many troops and officers, ostensibly because the emperor needed them for his upcoming campaign against the Persians. One of the legions ordered east, the Petulantes, did not want to leave Gaul because the majority of the soldiers in the unit were from this region. As a result they mutinied and hailed Julian as Augustus at Lutetia. Julian refused this acclamation as he had done at Argentoratum earlier, but the soldiers would have none of his denial. They raised him on a shield and adorned him with a neck chain, which had formerly been the possession of the standard-bearer of the Petulantes and symbolized a royal diadem. Julian appeared reluctantly to acquiesce to their wishes, and promised a generous donative. The exact date of his acclamation is unknown, but most scholars put it in February or March. Julian himself supported Ammianus' picture of a jealous Constantius. In his Letter to the Athenians, a document constructed to answer charges that he was a usurper, Julian stated that from the start he, as Caesar, had been meant as a figurehead to the soldiers and provincials. The real power he claimed lay with the generals and officials already present in Gaul. In fact, according to Julian, the generals were charged with watching him as much as the enemy. His account of the actual acclamation closely followed what Ammianus told us, but he stressed even more his reluctance to take power. Julian claimed that he did so only after praying to Zeus for guidance.

Fearing the reaction of Constantius, Julian sent a letter to his fellow emperor justifying the events at Lutetia and trying to arrange a peaceful solution. This letter berated Constantius for forcing the troops in Gaul into an untenable situation. Ammianus stated that Julian's letter blamed Constantius' decision to transfer Gallic legions east as the reason for the soldiers' rebellion. Julian once again asserted that he was an unwilling participant who was only following the desire of the soldiers. In both of these basic accounts Ammianus and Julian are playing upon the theme of restoration. Implicit in their version of Julian's acclamation is the argument that Constantius was unfit to rule. The soldiers were the vehicle of the gods' will. The Letter to the Athenians is full of references to the fact that Julian was assuming the mantle of Augustus at the instigation of the gods. Ammianus summed up this position nicely when he related the story of how, when Julian was agonizing over whether to accept the soldiers' acclamation, he had a dream in which he was visited by the Genius (guardian spirit) of the Roman state. The Genius told Julian that it had often tried to bestow high honors upon Julian but had been rebuffed. Now, the Genius went on to say, was Julian's final chance to take the power that was rightfully his. If the Caesar refused this chance, the Genius would depart forever, and both Julian and the state would rue Julian's rejection. Julian himself wrote a letter to his friend Maximus of Ephesus in November of 361 detailing his thoughts on his proclamation. In this letter, Julian stated that the soldiers proclaimed him Augustus against his will. Julian, however, defended his accession, saying that the gods willed it and that he had treated his enemies with clemency and justice. He went on to say that he led the troops in propitiating the traditional deities, because the gods commanded him to return to the traditional rites, and would reward him if he fulfilled this duty.

During 360 an uneasy peace simmered between the two emperors. Julian spent the 360 campaigning season continuing his efforts to restore order along the Rhine, while Constantius continued operations against the Persians. Julian wintered in Vienne, and celebrated his Quinquennalia. It was at this time that his wife Helena died, and he sent her remains to Rome for a proper burial at his family villa on the Via Nomentana where the body of her sister was entombed. The uneasy peace held through the summer of 361, but Julian concentrated his military operations around harassing the Alamannic chieftain Vadomarius and his allies, who had concluded a peace treaty with Constantius some years earlier. By the end of the summer, Julian decided to put an end to the waiting and gathered his army to march east against Constantius. The empire teetered on the brink of another civil war. Constantius had spent the summer negotiating with the Persians and making preparations for possible military action against his cousin. When he was assured that the Persians would not attack, he summoned his army and sallied forth to meet Julian. As the armies drew inexorably closer to one another, the empire was saved from another bloody civil war when Constantius died unexpectedly of natural causes on 3 November near the town of Mopsucrenae in Cilicia, naming Julian -- the sources say-- as his legitimate successor.

Julian was in Dacia when he learned of his cousin's death. He made his way through Thrace and came to Constantinople on 11 December 361 where Julian honored the emperor with the funeral rites appropriate for a man of his station. Julian immediately set about putting his supporters in positions of power and trimming the imperial bureaucracy, which had become extremely overstaffed during Constantius' reign. Cooks and barbers had increased during the late emperor's reign and Julian expelled them from his court. Ammianus gave a mixed assessment of how the new emperor handled the followers of Constantius. Traditionally, emperors were supposed to show clemency to the supporters of a defeated enemy. Julian, however, gave some men over to death to appease the army. Ammianus used the case of Ursulus, Constantius' comes sacrum largitionum, to illustrate his point. Ursulus had actually tried to acquire money for the Gallic troops when Julian had first been appointed Caesar, but he had also made a disparaging remark about the ineffectiveness of the army after the battle of Amida. The soldiers remembered this, and when Julian became sole Augustus, they demanded Ursulus' head. Julian obliged, much to the disapproval of Ammianus. This seems to be a case of Julian courting the favor of the military leadership, and is indicative of a pattern in which Julian courted the goodwill of various societal elites to legitimize his position as emperor.

Another case in point is the officials who made up the imperial bureaucracy. Many of them were subjected to trial and punishment. To achieve this goal, during the last weeks of December 361 Julian assembled a military tribunal at Chalcedon, empanelling six judges to try the cases. The president of the tribunal was Salutius, just promoted to the rank of Praetorian Prefect; the five other members were Mamertinus, the orator, and four general officers: Jovinus, Agilo, Nevitta, and Arbetio. Relative to the proceedings of the tribunal, Ammianus noted that the judges, " . . . oversaw the cases more vehemently than was right or fair, with the exception of a few . . .." Ammianus' account of Julian's attempt at reform of the imperial bureaucracy is supported by legal evidence from the Theodosian Code. A series of laws sent to Mamertinus, Julian's appointee as Praetorian Prefect in Italy, Illyricum, and Africa, illustrate this point nicely. On 6 June 362, Mamertinus received a law that prohibited provincial governors from bypassing the Vicars when giving their reports to the Prefect. Traditionally, Vicars were given civil authority over a group of provinces, and were in theory meant to serve as a middle step between governors and Prefects. This law suggests that the Vicars were being left out, at least in Illyricum. Julian issued another edict to Mamertinus on 22 February 362 to stop abuse of the public post by governors. According to this law, only Mamertinus could issue post warrants, but the Vicars were given twelve blank warrants to be used as they saw fit, and each governor was given two. Continuing the trend of bureaucratic reform, Julian also imposed penalties on governors who purposefully delayed appeals in court cases they had heard. The emperor also established a new official to weigh solidi used in official government transactions to combat coin clipping.

For Julian, reigning in the abuses of imperial bureaucrats was one step in restoring the prestige of the office of emperor. Because he could not affect all elements of society personally, Julian, like other Neo-Flavian emperors, decided to concentrate on select groups of societal elites as intercessors between himself and the general populace. One of these groups was the imperial bureaucracy. Julian made it very clear that imperial officials were intercessors in a very real sense in a letter to Alypius, Vicar of Britain. In this letter, sent from Gaul sometime before 361, the emperor praises Alypius for his use of "mildness and moderation with courage and force" in his rule of the provincials. Such virtues were characteristic of the emperors, and it was good that Alypius is representing Julian in this way. Julian courted the army because it put him in power. Another group he sought to include in his rule was the traditional Senatorial aristocracy. One of his first appointments as consul was Claudius Mamertinus, a Gallic Senator and rhetorician. Mamertinus' speech in praise of Julian delivered at Constantinople in January of 362 is preserved. In this speech, Claudius presented his consular selection as inaugurating a new golden age and Julian as the restorer of the empire founded by Augustus. The image Mamertinus gave of his own consulate inaugurating a new golden age is not merely formulaic. The comparison of Julian to Augustus has very real, if implicit, relevance to Claudius' situation. Claudius emphasized the imperial period as the true age of renewal. Augustus ushered in a new era with his formation of a partnership between the emperor and the Senate based upon a series of honors and offices bestowed upon the Senate in return for their role as intercessor between emperor and populace. It was this system that Julian was restoring, and the consulate was one concrete example of this bond. To be chosen as a consul by the emperor, who himself had been divinely mandated, was a divine honor. In addition to being named consul, Mamertinus went on to hold several offices under Julian, including the Prefecture of Italy, Illyricum, and Africa. Similarly, inscriptional evidence illustrates a link between municipal elites and Julian during his time as Caesar, something which continued after he became emperor. One concrete example comes from the municipal senate of Aceruntia in Apulia, which established a monument on which Julian is styled as "Repairer of the World."

Julian seems to have given up actual Christian belief before his acclamation as emperor and was a practitioner of more traditional Greco-Roman religious beliefs, in particular, a follower of certain late antique Platonist philosophers who were especially adept at theurgy as was noted earlier. In fact Julian himself spoke of his conversion to Neo-Platonism in a letter to the Alexandrians written in 363. He stated that he had abandoned Christianity when he was twenty years old and been an adherent of the traditional Greco-Roman deities for the twelve years prior to writing this letter.

(For the complete text of this article see: http://www.roman-emperors.org/julian.htm)

Julian’s Persian Campaign

The exact goals Julian had for his ill-fated Persian campaign were never clear. The Sassanid Persians, and before them the Parthians, had been a traditional enemy from the time of the Late Republic, and indeed Constantius had been conducting a war against them before Julian's accession forced the former to forge an uneasy peace. Julian, however, had no concrete reason to reopen hostilities in the east. Socrates Scholasticus attributed Julian's motives to imitation of Alexander the Great, but perhaps the real reason lay in his need to gather the support of the army. Despite his acclamation by the Gallic legions, relations between Julian and the top military officers was uneasy at best. A war against the Persians would have brought prestige and power both to Julian and the army.

Julian set out on his fateful campaign on 5 March 363. Using his trademark strategy of striking quickly and where least expected, he moved his army through Heirapolis and from there speedily across the Euphrates and into the province of Mesopotamia, where he stopped at the town of Batnae. His plan was to eventually return through Armenia and winter in Tarsus. Once in Mesopotamia, Julian was faced with the decision of whether to travel south through the province of Babylonia or cross the Tigris into Assyria, and he eventually decided to move south through Babylonia and turn west into Assyria at a later date. By 27 March, he had the bulk of his army across the Euphrates, and had also arranged a flotilla to guard his supply line along the mighty river. He then left his generals Procopius and Sebastianus to help Arsacius, the king of Armenia and a Roman client, to guard the northern Tigris line. It was also during this time that he received the surrender of many prominent local leaders who had nominally supported the Persians. These men supplied Julian with money and troops for further military action against their former masters. Julian decided to turn south into Babylonia and proceeded along the Euphrates, coming to the fortress of Cercusium at the junction of the Abora and Euphrates Rivers around the first of April, and from there he took his army west to a region called Zaitha near the abandoned town of Dura where they visited the tomb of the emperor Gordian which was in the area. On April 7 he set out from there into the heart of Babylonia and towards Assyria.

Ammianus then stated that Julian and his army crossed into Assyria, which on the face of things appears very confusing. Julian still seems to be operating within the province of Babylonia between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. The confusion is alleviated when one realizes that,for Ammianus, the region of Assyria encompassed the provinces of Babylonia and Assyria. On their march, Julian's forces took the fortress of Anatha, received the surrender and support of several more local princes, and ravaged the countryside of Assyria between the rivers. As the army continued south, they came across the fortresses Thilutha and Achaiachala, but these places were too well defended and Julian decided to leave them alone. Further south were the cities Diacira and Ozogardana, which the Roman forces sacked and burned. Soon, Julian came to Pirisabora and a brief siege ensued, but the city fell and was also looted and destroyed. It was also at this time that the Roman army met its first systematic resistance from the Persians. As the Romans penetrated further south and west, the local inhabitants began to flood their route. Nevertheless, the Roman forces pressed on and came to Maiozamalcha, a sizable city not far from Ctesiphon. After a short siege, this city too fell to Julian. Inexorably, Julian's forces zeroed in on Ctesiphon, but as they drew closer, the Persian resistance grew fiercer, with guerilla raids whittling at Julian's men and supplies. A sizable force of the army was lost and the emperor himself was almost killed taking a fort a few miles from the target city.
Finally, the army approached Ctesiphon following a canal that linked the Tigris and Euphrates. It soon became apparent after a few preliminary skirmishes that a protracted siege would be necessary to take this important city. Many of his generals, however, thought that pursuing this course of action would be foolish. Julian reluctantly agreed, but became enraged by this failure and ordered his fleet to be burned as he decided to march through the province of Assyria. Julian had planned for his army to live off the land, but the Persians employed a scorched-earth policy. When it became apparent that his army would perish (because his supplies were beginning to dwindle) from starvation and the heat if he continued his campaign, and also in the face of superior numbers of the enemy, Julian ordered a retreat on 16 June. As the Roman army retreated, they were constantly harassed by guerilla strikes. It was during one of these raids that Julian got caught up in the fighting and took a spear to his abdomen. Mortally wounded he was carried to his tent, where, after conferring with some of his officers, he died. The date was 26 June 363.

Conclusion

Thus an ignominious end for a man came about who had hoped to restore the glory of the Roman empire during his reign as emperor. Due to his intense hatred of Christianity, the opinion of posterity has not been kind to Julian. The contemporary opinion, however, was overall positive. The evidence shows that Julian was a complex ruler with a definite agenda to use traditional social institutions in order to revive what he saw as a collapsing empire. In the final assessment, he was not so different from any of the other emperors of the fourth century. He was a man grasping desperately to hang on to a Greco-Roman conception of leadership that was undergoing a subtle yet profound change.
Copyright (C) 2002, Walter E. Roberts and Michael DiMaio, Jr. Used by permission.

In reality, Julian worked to promote culture and philosophy in any manifestation. He tried to reduce taxes and the public debts of municipalities; he augmented administrative decentralisation; he promoted a campaign of austerity to reduce public expenditure (setting himself as the example). He reformed the postal service and eliminated the powerful secret police.
by Federico Morando; JULIAN II, The Apostate, See the Julian II Page on NumisWiki

Flavius Claudius Iulianus was born in 331 or maybe 332 A.D. in Constantinople. He ruled the Western Empire as Caesar from 355 to 360 and was hailed Augustus by his legions in Lutetia (Paris) in 360. Julian was a gifted administrator and military strategist. Famed as the last pagan emperor, his reinstatement of the pagan religion earned him the moniker "the Apostate." As evidenced by his brilliant writing, some of which has survived to the present day, the title "the Philosopher" may have been more appropriate. He died from wounds suffered during the Persian campaign of 363 A.D. Joseph Sermarini, FORVM.

Edited by J. P. Fitzgerald, Jr.

2 commentsCleisthenes

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Antiochia, RIC VIII 216, AE-1, -/-//palmANTΓpalm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Antiochia, RIC VIII 216, AE-1, -/-//palmANTΓpalm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, #1
avers:- D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right
reverse:- SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above
exergue: -/-//palmANTΓpalm, diameter: 28mm, weight: 8,74g, axis: h,
mint: Antiochia, date: 360-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-216, C,
Q-0011 commentsquadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Antiochia, RIC VIII 216, AE-1, -/-//palmANTApalm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Antiochia, RIC VIII 216, AE-1, -/-//palmANTApalm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, #1
avers:- D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right
reverse:- SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above
exergue: -/-//palmANTApalm, diameter: 28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Antiochia, date: 360-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-216, C,
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 313, AE-1, -/-//TCON, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R3!!!153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 313, AE-1, -/-//TCON, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R3!!!
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above (D3).
exergue: -/-//TCON, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Arles, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 313, R3!!!
Q-003quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 320, AE-1, -/-/SCONST•, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 320, AE-1, -/-/SCONST•, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above (D3).
exergue: -/-/SCONST•, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Arles, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 320, R!
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 320, AE-1, -/-/SCONST•, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #2153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 320, AE-1, -/-/SCONST•, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #2
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above (D3).
exergue: -/-/SCONST•, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Arles, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 320, R!
Q-002quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 321, AE-1, -/-/SCONST•, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 321, AE-1, -/-/SCONST•, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVL IANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above (D3).
exergue: -/-/SCONST•, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Arles, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 321, R!
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 322, AE-1, -/-/SCONST•, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 322, AE-1, -/-/SCONST•, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLIAN VS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above (D3).
exergue: -/-/SCONST•, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Arles, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 322, R!
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 322, AE-1, -/-/SCONST•, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #2153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 322, AE-1, -/-/SCONST•, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #2
avers: D N FL CL IVLIAN VS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above (D3).
exergue: -/-/SCONST•, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Arles, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 322, R!
Q-002quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Constantinopolis, RIC VIII 161, AE-1, -/-//-/-//CONSPA, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Constantinopolis, RIC VIII 161, AE-1, -/-//-/-//CONSPA, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG (J8), Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right (D3).
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//CONSPA, diameter: 28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Constantinopolis, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-161, C
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Cyzicus, RIC VIII 127, AE-1, -/-//CYZΓ, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Cyzicus, RIC VIII 127, AE-1, -/-//CYZΓ, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG (J8), Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right (D3).
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//CYZΓ, diameter: 28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Cyzicus, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-127, C
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Cyzicus, RIC VIII 127, AE-1, -/-//CYZA, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Cyzicus, RIC VIII 127, AE-1, -/-//CYZA, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG (J8), Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right (D3).
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//CYZA, diameter: 28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Cyzicus, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-127, C
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Heraclea, RIC VIII 104, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, -/-//•HERACL•B/•, Bull standing right, Scarce!, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Heraclea, RIC VIII 104, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, -/-//•HERACL•B/•, Bull standing right, Scarce!, #1
avers:- D N FL CL IVLIAN VS P F AVG, bearded, pearl diademed, draped, cuirassed bust right.
revers:- SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above, in right field.
exergo: -/-//•HERACL•B/•, diameter: 27mm, weight: 8,66g, axis: 5h,
mint: Heraclea, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-104,p-438, Scarce!
Q-0011 commentsquadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Lugdunum, RIC VIII 218, AR-Siliqua, -/-//LVG, VOTIS/V/MVLTIS/X, in wreath, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Lugdunum, RIC VIII 218, AR-Siliqua, -/-//LVG, VOTIS/V/MVLTIS/X, in wreath, #1
avers: FL CL IVLIA NVS P P AVG, Pearl-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: No legend, VOTIS/V/MVLTIS/X in four line, in wreath.
exergue: -/-//LVG, diameter: 17mm, weight: 2,03g, axis: 0h,
mint: Lugdunum, date: 360-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII 218, p-,
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Lugdunum, RIC VIII 236, AE-1, -/-//LUGDOFFP, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Rare! #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Lugdunum, RIC VIII 236, AE-1, -/-//LUGDOFFP, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Rare! #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//LUGDOFFP, diameter: 28mm, weight: 7,67g, axis: h,
mint: Lugdunum (Lyon), date: 360-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-236,
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Lugdunum, RIC VIII 236, AE-1, -/-//LUGDOFFP, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Rare! #2153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Lugdunum, RIC VIII 236, AE-1, -/-//LUGDOFFP, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Rare! #2
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//LUGDOFFP, diameter: 28mm, weight: 7,98g, axis: h,
mint: Lugdunum (Lyon), date: 360-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-236,
Q-002quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Lugdunum, RIC VIII 236, AE-1, -/-//LUGDOFFP, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Rare! #3153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Lugdunum, RIC VIII 236, AE-1, -/-//LUGDOFFP, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Rare! #3
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//LUGDOFFP, diameter: 28mm, weight: 7,47g, axis: h,
mint: Lugdunum (Lyon), date: 360-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-236,
Q-003quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Nicomedia, RIC VIII 120, AE-1, -/-//NIKA * ??, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Nicomedia, RIC VIII 120, AE-1, -/-//NIKA * ??, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG (J8), Bearded, pearl diademed, draped, cuirassed bust right (D3).
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//NIKA * ??, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Nicomedia, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-120, R!
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 106, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, -/-//*ASIRMwreath, Bull standing right, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 106, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, -/-//*ASIRMwreath, Bull standing right, #1
avers:- D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG (J8), Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right (D3).
revers:- SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergo: -/-//*ASIRMwreath, diameter: 28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Sirmium, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 106, C
Q-0011 commentsquadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 107, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, -/-//*ASIRMpalm, Bull standing right, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 107, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, -/-//*ASIRMpalm, Bull standing right, #1
avers:- D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG (J8), Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right (D3).
revers:- SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergo: -/-//*ASIRMpalm, diameter: 28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Sirmium, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 107, C
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 107, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, -/-//*BSIRMpalm, Bull standing right, #2153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 107, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, -/-//*BSIRMpalm, Bull standing right, #2
avers:- D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG (J8), Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right (D3).
revers:- SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergo: -/-//*BSIRMpalm, diameter: 28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Sirmium, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 107, C
Q-0021 commentsquadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 108, AE-3, -/-//ASIRM, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 108, AE-3, -/-//ASIRM, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, J8/A3L, Helmeted, diademed, cuirassed bust left, holding spear and shield.
reverse: No legend, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath.
exergue: -/-//ASIRM, diameter: 19mm, weight: 3,04g, axis: 6h,
mint: Simium, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII 108, p-393,
Q-002quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 108, AE-3, -/-//BSIRM, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 108, AE-3, -/-//BSIRM, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, J8/A3L, Helmeted, diademed, cuirassed bust left, holding spear and shield.
reverse: No legend, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath.
exergue: -/-//B-SIRM, diameter: 20,5mm, weight: 3,35g, axis: 6h,
mint: Simium, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII 108, p-393,
Q-0011 commentsquadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 108, AE-3, -/-//BSIRM, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #2153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 108, AE-3, -/-//BSIRM, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #2
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, J8/A3L, Helmeted, diademed, cuirassed bust left, holding spear and shield.
reverse: No legend, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath.
exergue: -/-//BSIRM, diameter: 20mm, weight: 3,10g, axis: 0h,
mint: Simium, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII 108, p-393,
Q-003quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 108, AE-3, -/-//BSIRM, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #3153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 108, AE-3, -/-//BSIRM, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #3
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, J8/A3L, Helmeted, diademed, cuirassed bust left, holding spear and shield.
reverse: No legend, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath.
exergue: -/-//BSIRM, diameter: 20,5-1,5mm, weight: 3,20g, axis: 7h,
mint: Simium, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII 108, p-393,
Q-003quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 108, AE-3, -/-//BSIRM, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, Nice animation !!!, 153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 108, AE-3, -/-//BSIRM, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, Nice animation !!!,
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, J8/A3L, Helmeted, diademed, cuirassed bust left, holding spear and shield.
reverse: No legend, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath.
exergue: -/-//B-SIRM, diameter: 20,5mm, weight: 3,35g, axis: 6h,
mint: Simium, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII 108, p-393,
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 363, AE-3, -/-//ΔSIS(revers)Z, FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Fallen horseman, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 363, AE-3, -/-//ΔSIS(revers)Z, FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Fallen horseman, #1
avers: D N IVLIANVS NOB CAES, JC10,D1, Bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Soldier spearing a fallen horseman.
exergue: -/-//ΔSIS(revers)Z, diameter: 18mm, weight: 1,91g, axis: 6h,
mint: Siscia, date: 355 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 363, p-377, Scarce !,
Q-0011 commentsquadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 371, AE-3, -/-//ΔSIS(revers)Z, FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Fallen horseman, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 371, AE-3, -/-//ΔSIS(revers)Z, FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Fallen horseman, #1
avers: D N IVLIANVS NOB C, Bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Soldier spearing a fallen horseman.
exergue: M/-//ΔSIS(revers)Z, diameter: 16,0-17,0mm, weight: 2,54g, axis: 0h,
mint: Siscia, date: 361-367 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 371, p-377, Scarce !,
Q-0011 commentsquadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 373, AE-3, -/-//ASISD, FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Fallen horseman, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 373, AE-3, -/-//ASISD, FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Fallen horseman, #1
avers: D N IVLIAN VS NOB CAES, JC10,D1, Bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust right, M or A or H behind the bust.
reverse: FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Soldier spearing a fallen horseman.
exergue: -/-//ASISD, diameter: 18mm, weight: 2,31g, axis: 0h,
mint: Siscia, date: 355-361 A.D., ref: RIC-373, Scarce !,
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 374, AE-3, M/-//A or ΔSISD, FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Fallen horseman, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 374, AE-3, M/-//A or ΔSISD, FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Fallen horseman, #1
avers: D N IVLIAN VS NOB C, JC16,D1, Bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Soldier spearing a fallen horseman.
exergue: M/-//A or ΔSISD, diameter: 15mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Siscia, date: 355-361 A.D., ref: RIC-374, Scarce !,
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 382, AE-3, M/-//ΔSISL, FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Fallen horseman, Scarce! #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 382, AE-3, M/-//ΔSISL, FEL TEMP REPARATIO, Fallen horseman, Scarce! #1
avers: D N IVLIAN VS NOB C, JC16,D1, Bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: FEL TEMP REPARATIO, The Soldier spearing fallen horseman who is wearing a Phrygian helmet, reaching backward, M in left field.
exergue: M/-//ΔSISL, diameter: 17,5mm, weight: 2,77g, axis: 6h,
mint: Siscia, date: 355-361 A.D., ref: RIC VIII 382, Scarce !,
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 415, AE-3, -/-//palmASISpalm, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 415, AE-3, -/-//palmASISpalm, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, J8/A3L, Helmeted, diademed, cuirassed bust left, holding spear and shield.
reverse: No legend, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath.
exergue: -/-//palmASISpalm, diameter: 19mm, weight: 3,12g, axis: 6h,
mint: Siscia, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII 415, p-380,
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 418, AE-1, -/-//palmASISCpalm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Scarce, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 418, AE-1, -/-//palmASISCpalm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Scarce, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//palmASISCpalm, diameter: 27,8-28,7mm, weight: 8,91g, axis: 7h,
mint: Siscia, date: 361-363 A.D.,
ref: RIC VIII 418, Scarce!,
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 422, AE-3, -/-//palmASISCpalm, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 422, AE-3, -/-//palmASISCpalm, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, J8/A3L, Helmeted, diademed, cuirassed bust left, holding spear and shield.
reverse: No legend, VOT/X/MVLT/XX in wreath.
exergue: -/-//palmASISCpalm, diameter: 20-21mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Siscia, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII 422, p-380,
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII 225, AE-1, -/-//palmTESApalm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII 225, AE-1, -/-//palmTESApalm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, R!, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//palmTESApalm, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Thessalonica, date: 360-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-225, R!
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII 226, AE-1, -/-//palm*TESΓ•palm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Scarce, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII 226, AE-1, -/-//palm*TESÎ“•palm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Scarce, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//palm*TESÎ“•palm, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Thessalonica, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-226, Scarce !,
Q-001quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII 226, AE-1, -/-//palm*TESΓ•palm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Scarce, #2153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII 226, AE-1, -/-//palm*TESÎ“•palm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Scarce, #2
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//palm*TESÎ“•palm, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Thessalonica, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-226, Scarce !,
Q-002quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII 226, AE-1, -/-//palm*TESB•palm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Scarce, #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII 226, AE-1, -/-//palm*TESB•palm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Scarce, #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//palm* TESB•palm, diameter: 26,5-27,0 mm, weight: 8,55g, axis: 0h,
mint: Thessalonica, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII-226, Scarce !,
Q-0013 commentsquadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII Not in !, AE-1, -/-//palm•TESΓ•palm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Rare! #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII Not in !, AE-1, -/-//palm•TESÎ“•palm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Rare! #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//palm•TESÎ“•palm, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Thessalonica, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII Not in, Rare!,
Q-001
quadrans

153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII Not in !, AE-1, -/-//palm•TESBpalm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Rare! #1153 Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Thessalonica, RIC VIII Not in !, AE-1, -/-//palm•TESBpalm, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Rare! #1
avers: D N FL CL IVLI ANVS P F AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: -/-//palm•TESBpalm, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Thessalonica, date: 361-363 A.D., ref: RIC-VIII Not in, Rare!,
Q-001quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 320-322var ???, AE-1, -/-//???, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #1153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Arles, RIC VIII 320-322var ???, AE-1, -/-//???, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #1
avers:- confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right
reverse:- confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above,
exergue: -/-//???, diameter: 22-23mm, weight: 5,39g, axis: 7h,
mint: Arles (Barbar), date: ???, ref: RIC VIII 320-322var ???,
Q-001quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #01153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #01
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue:-/-//-???-, diameter: mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbar, date: ??, ref: RIC VIII ???,
Q-001quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #02153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #02
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue:-/-//-???-, diameter: mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbar, date: ??, ref: RIC VIII ???,
Q-002quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #03153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #03
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue:-/-//-???-, diameter: mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbar, date: ??, ref: RIC VIII ???,
Q-003quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #04153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #04
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue:-/-//-???-, diameter: mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbar, date: ??, ref: RIC VIII ???,
Q-004quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #05153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #05
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue:-/-//-???-, diameter: mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbar, date: ??, ref: RIC VIII ???,
Q-005quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #06153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #06
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue:-/-//-???-, diameter: mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbar, date: ??, ref: RIC VIII ???,
Q-006quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #07153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #07
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue:-/-//-???-, diameter: mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbar, date: ??, ref: RIC VIII ???,
Q-007quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #08153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #08
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue:-/-//-???-, diameter: mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbar, date: ??, ref: RIC VIII ???,
Q-008quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #09153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #09
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue:-/-//-???-, diameter: mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbar, date: ??, ref: RIC VIII ???,
Q-009quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #10153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #10
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue:-/-//-???-, diameter: mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbar, date: ??, ref: RIC VIII ???,
Q-010quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #11153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbar, RIC VIII ???, AE-1, Confusing text, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #11
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue:-/-//-???-, diameter: mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbar, date: ??, ref: RIC VIII ???,
Q-011quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbarous, RIC VIII 106-107 ???, AE-26, SECVRITAS REIPVB (?) retrograde, Bull standing left, Barbarous Imitation, #01153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Barbarous, RIC VIII 106-107 ???, AE-26, SECVRITAS REIPVB (?) retrograde, Bull standing left, Barbarous Imitation, #01
avers: Confusing text, DN AU IL VLIAͶVS PF HVG, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Confusing text, SECVRITAS REIPVB right to left, completely retrograde, Bull standing left, two stars above, -IISV IIII•-(?) in exergue.
exergue:-/-//-IISV IIII•-, diameter:30mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Barbarous), date: ??, ref: RIC VIII 106-107 ???,
Q-0013 commentsquadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium ???, RIC VIII 106-107 ???, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #01153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium ???, RIC VIII 106-107 ???, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #01
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above, ?-SIRN-? in exergue.
exergue:-/-//-SIRN-, diameter:30mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Sirmium (Barbar), date: ??, ref: RIC VIII 106-107 ???,
Q-001
quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium ???, RIC VIII 106-107 ???, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #02153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium ???, RIC VIII 106-107 ???, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #02
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above, ?-SIRN-? in exergue.
exergue:-/-//-SIRN-, diameter:25mm, weight: 0,0g, axis: h,
mint: Sirmium (Barbar), date: ??, ref: RIC VIII 106-107 ???,
Q-002quadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium ???, RIC VIII 106-107 ???, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #03153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Sirmium ???, RIC VIII 106-107 ???, AE-1, SECVRITAS REIPVB, Bull standing right, Barbarous Imitation, #03
avers: Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right
reverse: Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above.
exergue: /-//confusing text, diameter: 22,5-23,5mm, weight: 6,18g, axis: 1h,
mint: Sirmium (Barbar), date: ???, ref: RIC VIII 106-107 ???,
Q-0031 commentsquadrans

153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 418var., AE-1-25, -/-//ASISC, SECVRITAS REIPVB "BARBAROUS Imitation Siscia", Bull standing right, #1153b Julianus II. (360-363 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VIII 418var., AE-1-25, -/-//ASISC, SECVRITAS REIPVB "BARBAROUS Imitation Siscia", Bull standing right, #1
avers:- Confusing text, Diademed (pearls), draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse:- Confusing text, Bull standing right, two stars above, A-SIS-C in exergue.
exergue: -/-//ASISC, diameter: 25mm, weight: 6,93g, axis: h,
mint: Siscia ???, date: ???, ref: RIC-VIII 418 var ??
Q-0011 commentsquadrans

193 - IULIANVS IIFlavius Claudius Julianus was Roman emperor from 361 to 363, as well as a notable philosopher.

for obverse, reverse and coin details click here

shanxi

193 AD Clodius Albinus Caesar, Sestertius RIC 50Clodius Albinus Caesar, Sestertius, Rome mint 193 AD
Obv.: D [C]LODIVS AL - BINVS CAES , Head, bare, r.
Rev.: PROVID - AVG COS / S - C , Providentia standing l., holding wand over globe and sceptre.
RIC IV, part I, p. 51, no. 50 ; C 59

Decimus Clodius Septimius Albinus was born in Hadrumetum (modern Sousse in Tunisia) and came from a prominent senatorial family. He held high office under Marcus Aurelius and continued under Commodus, becoming consul in 187 and governor of Britain in 191. After the murder of Pertinax and the purchase of the Empire by Didius Julianus, Albinus, joined by his rivals Pescennius Niger and Septimius Severus, made preparations to march on Rome. Severus got there first and, in order to free himself for battle in the East, had Albinus proclaimed Caesar and made him his heir. Needless to say, after his defeat of Niger, Severus turned on Albinus and had him declared a public enemy in 195. Albinus was hailed emperor in Lugdunum in either late 195 or early 196, and spent the next year raising troops: Severus moved into Gaul with his army in 196 and in a huge battle outside Lugdunum on 19 February, defeated Albinus who then committed suicide.

my ancient coin database
1 commentsArminius

193_Didius_Julianus_Dupondius_RIC_12_1Didius Julianus (March 28th – early June 193 AD)
AE Dupondius, Rome, March 28th – early June 193 AD
IMP CAES M DID IVLIAN AVG;
Radiate head right
PM TR P COS, S-C;
Fortuna standing left, holding rudder on globe and cornucopiae
10,85 gr, 25 mm
RIC IVa, 12; BMC V, 17; C. 13; CMB I, 3
Ex Künker, Auction 193, lot 827
Ex Künker, Auction 236, lot 1111
1 commentsga77

1bq Didius Julianus193

Sestertius

Laureate head, right, IMP CAES M DID SEVER IVLIAN AVG
Concorde w/ standard, CONCORDIA MILIT SC

RIC 14

According to the Historia Augusta: Didius Julianus. . . was reared at the home of Domitia Lucilla, the mother of the Emperor Marcus. . . . [T]hrough the support of Marcus he attained to the office of aedile [and] praetor. After his praetorship he commanded the XXII Legion, the Primigenia, in Germany, and following that he ruled Belgium long and well. Here, with auxiliaries hastily levied from the provinces, he held out against the Chauci as they attempted to burst through the border; and for these services, on the recommendation of the Emperor, he was deemed worthy of the consulship. He also gained a crushing victory over the Chatti. Next he took charge of Dalmatia and cleared it of the hostile tribes on its borders. Then he governed Lower Germany. . . .

His consulship he served with Pertinax; in the proconsulship of Africa, moreover, he succeeded him. Pertinax always spoke of him as his colleague and successor. After [Pertinax'] death, when Sulpicianus was making plans to be hailed emperor in the camp, Julianus, together with his son-in-law, . . . discovered two tribunes, Publius Florianus and Vectius Aper, who immediately began urging him to seize the throne; and. . . conducted him to the praetorian camp. When they arrived at the camp, however, Sulpicianus, the prefect of the city and the father-in-law of Pertinax, was holding an assembly and claiming the empire himself, and no one would let Julianus inside, despite the huge promises he made from outside the wall. Julianus then . . . wrote on placards that he would restore the good name of Commodus; so he was admitted and proclaimed emperor. . . .

Julianus had no fear of either the British or the Illyrian army; but being chiefly afraid of the Syrian army, he despatched a centurion of the first rank with orders to murder Niger. Consequently Pescennius Niger in Syria and Septimius Severus in Illyricum, together with the armies which they commanded, revolted from Julianus. But when he received the news of the revolt of Severus, whom he had not suspected, then he was greatly troubled and came to the senate and prevailed upon them to declare Severus a public enemy. . . . Severus was approaching the city with a hostile army. . . and the populace hated and laughed at him more and more every day.

In a short time Julianus was deserted by all and left alone in the Palace with one of his prefects, Genialis, and with Repentinus, his son-in-law. Finally, it was propose'd that the imperial power be taken away from Julianus by order of the senate. This was done, and Severus was forthwith acclaimed emperor, while it was given out that Julianus had taken poison. Nevertheless, the senate despatched a delegation and through their efforts Julianus was slain in the Palace by a common soldier. . . .Blindado

1br Clodius Albinus195-197

Denarius

Bare head, right, D CL SEPT ALBIN CAES
Roma seated on shield holding Palladium and scepter, ROMAE AETERNAE

RIC 11

According to the Historia Augusta, which in the case of Albinus is thought to be of dubious veracity: After the death of Pertinax, who was slain at Albinus' advice, various men were hailed emperor at about one and the same time by the senate Julianus at Rome, and by the armies, Septimius Severus in Illyricum, Pescennius Niger in the East, and Clodius Albinus in Gaul. According to Herodian, Clodius had been named Caesar by Severus. But as time went on, each chafed at the other's rule, and the armies of Gaul and Germany demanded an emperor of their own naming, and so all parts of the empire were thrown into an uproar. . . .

It is an undeniable fact, moreover, and Marius Maximus also relates it, that Severus at first intended to name Pescennius Niger and Clodius Albinus as his successors, in case aught befell him. Later, as it happened, in the interest of his growing sons, and through envy of the affection in which Albinus was held, and most of all becau-e of his wires entreaties, he changed his purpose and crushed both of them in war. But he did name Albinus consul, and this he never would have done had not Aibinus been a worthy man, since he was ever most careful in his choice of magistrate. . . .

As soon as he came of age he entered military service, and by the aid of Lollius Serenus, Baebius Maecianus and Ceionius Postumianus, all his kinsmen, he gained the notice of the Antonines. In the capacity of a tribune he commanded a troop of Dalmatian horse: he also commanded soldiers of the I and the IV legions. At the time of Avidius' revolt he loyally held the Bithynian army to its allegiance. Next, Commodus transferred him to Gaul; and here he routed the tribes from over the Rhine and made his name illustrious among both Romans and barbarians. This aroused Commodus' interest, and he offered Albinus the name of Caesar and the privilege, too, of giving the soldiers a present and wearing the scarlet cloak. But all these offers Albinus wisely refused, for Commodus, he said, was only looking for a man who would perish with him, or whom he could reasonably put to death. . . .

[A]fter a decisive engagement, where countless of his soldiers fell, and very many fled, and many, too, surrendered, Albinus also fled away and, according to some, stabbed himself, according to others, was stabbed by a slave. At any rate, he was brought to Severus only half alive. . . . Albinus' head was cut off and paraded on a pike, and finally sent to Rome.Blindado

1bs Septimius Severus193-211

Denarius

Laureate head, right, SEVERVS PIVS AVG
Septimius, togate and veiled, standing left holding olive branch, FVNDATOR PACIS

RIC 265

According to the Historia Augusta: After the murder of Didius Julianus, Severus, a native of Africa, gained the empire. His home town was Lepcis Magna, his father was Geta and his ancestors had been Roman knights before citizenship had been given to all. . . . He himself was born on the third day before the Ides of April, when Erucius Clarus, for the second time, and Severus were the consuls [11 April A.D.146]. . . .

After his departure to Germany he conducted himself in such a way in his governorship as to increase his reputation, which had already become noteworthy. Up to this point his military activity was as a private citizen. But then, after it had been learned that Commodus had been murdered and, moreover, that Julianus held the empire amid universal hatred, he was proclaimed emperor by the German legions at Carnuntum, on the Ides of August, although he did put up some resistance to the many who urged him on. He gave the soldiers . . . sesterces each. Then, after strengthening the provinces which he was leaving in his rear, he marched on Rome. All yielded to him wherever he went, while the armies of Illyricum and Gaul, under the pressure of their generals, had already sworn allegiance to him - for he was received by everyone as the avenger of Pertinax. At the same time, on the instigation of Julianus, Septimius Severus was declared a public enemy, and envoys were sent to the army who were to order the soldiers to desert him, on the instructions of the Senate. At first, when Severus heard that the envoys had been sent by authority of a senatorial decree, he was very frightened. Afterwards, by bribing the envoys, he ensured that they spoke in his favour before the army and crossed to his side. Having learned this, Julianus caused a decree ofthe Senate to be passed regarding his sharing of the empire with Severus. It is uncertain whether or not he did this as a trick, since he had already, before this, dispatched certain men, well known for their assassinations of generals, who were to kill Severus. Similarly he had sent men to assassinate Pescennius Niger, who had also assumed the position of emperor in opposition to him, on the instigation of the Syrian armies. But Severus escaped the hands of those that Julianus had sent to murder him and sent a letter to the praetorian guard, giving them the signal either to desertJulianus or to kill him. He was obeyed at once; Julianus was killed in the palace and Severus was invited to Rome. Thus Severus became the victor merely at will - something that had never happened to anyone - and hastened to Rome under arms. . . .

The same emperor, although implacable towards offences, likewise displayed singular judiciousness in encouraging all hard-working persons. He was quite interested in philosophy and the practice of rhetoric, and enthusiastic about learning in general. He took some measures against brigands everywhere. He composed a convincing autobiography dealing with both his private and his public life, making excuses only for the vice of cruelty. With regard to this, the Senate pronounced that either he ought not to have been born or that he ought not to die, since he appeared to be both excessively cruel and excessively useful to the republic. . . . . He died at Eboracum [York] in Britain, having subdued the tribes which appeared hostile to Britain, in the eighteeneh year of his reign, stricken by a very grave illness, now an old man. . . .

This emperor wore such meagre clothing that even his tunic scarcely had any purple, while he covered his shoulders with a shaggy cloak. He ate sparingly, being very addicted to his native vegetable, sometimes fond of wine, often abstaining from meat. His person was handsome, he was of huge size,(Dio Cassius, who knew Severus personally, says that he was small) with a long beard and curly white hair. His face inspired reverence, his voice was resonant but with a trace of an African accent right up to his old age. He was equally beloved after his death, when envy, or the fear of his cruelty, had disappeared.Blindado

1en Julian II "Apostate"360-363

AE3

Pearl-diademed, helmeted, cuirassed bust left, holding shield & spear, D N FL CL IVLIANVS P F AVG
VOT X MVLT XX in four lines within wreath, palm branch-BSIS-palm branch in ex [?].

RIC 415

According to Zosimus: Constantius, having so well succeeded in his design against Vetranio, marched against Magnentius, having first conferred the title of Caesar on Gallus, the son of his uncle, and brother to Julian who was afterwards emperor, and given him in marriage his sister Constantia. . . . CONSTANTIUS, after having acted towards Gallus Caesar in the manner I have related, left Pannonia to proceed into Italy. . . . He scarcely thought himself capable of managing affairs at this critical period. He was unwilling, however, to associate any one with himself in the government, because he so much desired to rule alone, and could esteem no man his friend. Under these circumstances he was at a loss how to act. It happened, however, that when the empire was in the greatest danger, Eusebia, the wife of Constantius, who was a woman of extraordinary learning, and of greater wisdom than her sex is usually endowed with, advised him to confer the government of the nations beyond the Alps on Julianus Caesar, who was brother to Gallus, and grandson to Constantius. As she knew that the emperor was suspicious of all his kindred, she thus circumvented him. She observed to him, that Julian was a young man unacquainted with the intrigues of state, having devoted himself totally to his studies; and that he was wholly inexperienced in worldly business. That on this account he would be more fit for his purpose than any other person. That either he would be fortunate, and his success would be attributed to the emperor's conduct, or that he would fail and perish; and that thus Constantius would have none of the imperial family to succeed to him.

Constantius, having approved her advice, sent for Julian from Athens, where he lived among the philosophers, and excelled all his masters in every kind of learning. Accordingly, Julian returning from Greece into Italy, Constantius declared him Caesar, gave him in marriage his sister Helena, and sent him beyond the Alps. . . .

Constantius, having thus disposed of Julian, marched himself into Pannonia and Moesia, and having there suppressed the Quadi and the Sarmatians, proceeded to the east, and was provoked to war by the inroads of the Persians. Julian by this time had arrived beyond the Alps into the Gallic nations which he was to rule. Perceiving that the Barbarians continued committing the same violence, Eusebia, for the same reasons as before, persuaded Constantius to place the entire management of those countries into the hands of Julian. . . . Julian finding the military affairs of Gallia Celtica in a very ruinous state, and that the Barbarians pased the Rhine without any resistance, even almost as far as the sea-port towns, he took a survey of the remaining parts of the enemy. And understanding that the people of those parts were terrified at the very name of the Barbarians, while those whom Constantius had sent along with him, who were not more than three hundred and sixty, knew nothing more, as he used to say, than how to say their prayers, he enlisted as many more as he could and took in a great number of volunteers. He also provided arms, and finding a quantity of old weapons in some town he fitted them up, and distributed them among the soldiers. The scouts bringing him intelligence, that an immense number of Barbarians had crossed the river near the city of Argentoratum (Strasburg) which stands on the Rhine, he no sooner heard of it, than he led forth his army with the greatest speed, and engaging with the enemy gained such a victory as exceeds all description.

After these events he raised a great army to make war on the whole German nation; He was opposed however by the Barbarians in vast numbers. Caesar therefore would not wait while they came up to him, but crossed the Rhine, preferring that their country should be the seat of war, and not that of the Romans, as by that means the cities would escape being again pillaged by the Barbarians. A most furious battle therefore took place; a great number of the Barbarians being slain on the field of battle, while the rest fled, and were pursued by Caesar into the Hercynian forest, and many of them killed. . . .

But while Julian was at Parisium, a small town in Germany, the soldiers, being ready to march, continued at supper till midnight in a place near the palace, which they so called there. They were as yet ignorant of any design against Caesar [by Constantius], when some tribunes, who began to suspect the contrivance against him, privately distributed a number of anonymous billets among the soldiers, in which they represented to them, that Caesar, by his judicious conduct had so managed affairs, that almost all of them had erected trophies over the Barbarians ; that he had always fought like a private soldier, and was now in extreme danger from the emperor, who would shortly deprive him of his whole army, unless they prevented it. Some of the soldiers having read these billets, and published the intrigue to the whole army, all were highly enraged. They suddenly rose from their seats in great commotion, and with the cups yet in their hands went to the palace. Breaking open the doors without ceremony, they brought out Caesar, and lifting him on a shield declared him emperor and Augustus. They then, without attending to his reluctance, placed a diadem upon his head. . . .

Arriving at Naisus, he consulted the soothsayers what measures to pursue. As the entrails signified that he must stay there for some time, he obeyed, observing likewise the time that was mentioned in his dream. When this, according to the motion of the planets, was arrived, a party of horsemen arrived from Constantinople at Naisus, with intelligence that Constantius was dead, and that the armies desired Julian to be emperor. Upon this he accepted what the gods had bestowed upon him, and proceeded on his journey. On his arrival at. Byzantium, he was received with joyful acclamations. . . .

[After slashing through Persia and crossing the Tigris,] they perceived the Persian army, with which they engaged, and having considerably the advantage, they killed a great number of Persians. Upon the following day, about noon, the Persians drew up in a large body, and once more attacked the rear of the Roman army. The Romans, being at that time out of their ranks, were surprised and alarmed at the suddenness of the attack, yet made a stout and spirited defence. The emperor, according to his custom, went round the army, encouraging them to fight with ardour. When by this means all were engaged, the emperor, who sometimes rode to the commanders and tribunes, and was at other times among the private soldiers, received a wound in the heat of the engagement, and was borne on a shield to his tent. He survived only till midnight. He then expired, after having nearly subverted the Persian empire.

Note: Julian favored the pagan faith over Christianity and was tarred by the church as "the apostate." Blindado

20 Didius JulianusDenarius. 193 AD. IMP CAES M DID IVLIAN AVG, laureate head right / CONCORD MILIT, Concordia standing left holding legionary eagle & standard. RIC 1, RSC 2, BMC 2. Weight 2.68 g. Die Axis 6 hr. Max Dia 17.1 mm.

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201a. JULIA DOMNAJULIA DOMNA, mother of Caracalla.

When Septimius Severus claimed the empire after Didius Julianus had succeeded Pertinax in 193, two serious rivals challenged him, Pescennius Niger in the East and Clodius Albinus in the West. Julia accompanied her husband in the campaign against Pescennius, having been honored with the title mater castrorum. After this successful campaign, there was another campaign in the East, against the Parthians, in 197. Afterwards, she was with Severus on a journey to Egypt and other parts of the empire. She was widely honored with inscriptions throughout this period, and numerous coin issues emphasized her imperial position.

She opposed Plautianus, the praetorian prefect and father-in-law of Caracalla, and was partially responsible for his downfall and his daughter Plautilla's disgrace. She was often accused of adultery; nonetheless, the emperor chose to ignore these charges, if true, and the marriage continued. Among her passions were literature and philosophy; she gathered writers and philosophers in a kind of salon, and urged Philostratus to write the life of Apollonius of Tyana.

In 212, Caracalla murdered Geta while he sought succor in his mother's arms; covered with his blood, she was forbidden by Caracalla to grieve. Her relationship with Caracalla during the six years of his reign was mixed. She had some public duties but largely devoted herself to philosophy. She accompanied Caracalla to the east on campaign against the Parthians in 217; when she learned, in Antioch, that he had been assassinated, she resolved upon death, which followed her refusal to take food.

AR Denarius
(19mm, 2.86 gm). IVLIA PIA FELIX AVG, draped
bust right / VESTA, Vesta, veiled, seated left,
holding simpulum and sceptre. RIC IV 391 (Caracalla); BMCRE 31 (same); RSC 226. EF. Ex-CNG
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201c. Pescennius NigerGaius Pescennius Niger was governor of Syria in the year 193 when he learned of the emperor Pertinax's murder. Niger's subsequent attempt to claim the empire for himself ended in failure in Syria after roughly one year. His life before becoming governor of Syria is not well known. He was born in Italy to an equestrian family. He seems to have been older than his eventual rival Septimius Severus, so his birth should perhaps be placed ca. AD 135-40. Niger may have held an important position in the administration of Egypt. He won renown, along with Clodius Albinus, for participation in a military campaign in Dacia early in Commodus' reign. Although Niger could have been adlected into the senate before the Dacian campaign, he was by now pursuing a senatorial career and must have been held in high esteem by Commodus. Niger was made a suffect consul, probably in the late 180s, and he was sent as governor to the important province of Syria in 191.

Niger was a well-known and well-liked figure to the Roman populace. After Pertinax became emperor at the beginning of 193, many in Rome may have hoped that the elderly Pertinax would adopt Niger as his Caesar and heir, but Pertinax was murdered without having made succession plans. When Didius Julianus arrived at the senate house on 29 March 193, his first full day as emperor, a riot broke out among the Roman crowd. The rioters took over the Circus Maximus, from which they shouted for Niger to seize the throne. The rioters dispersed the following day, but a report of their demonstration may well have arrived in the Syrian capital, Antioch, with the news that Pertinax had been murdered and replaced by Julianus.

Spurred into action by the news, Niger had himself proclaimed emperor in Antioch. The governors of the other eastern provinces quickly joined his cause. Niger's most important ally was the respected proconsul of Asia, Asellius Aemilianus, and support began to spread across the Propontis into Europe. Byzantium welcomed Niger, who now was preparing further advances. Niger took the additional cognomen Justus, "the Just." Justice was promoted as the theme of his intended reign, and personifications of Justice appeared on his coins.

Other provincial governors, however, also set their sights on replacing Julianus. Albinus in Britain and Septimius Severus in Upper Pannonia (western Hungary) had each aspired to the purple, and Severus was marching an army on Rome. Severus was still 50 miles from the city when the last of Julianus' dwindling authority disappeared. Julianus was killed in Rome 1 June 193.

Niger sent messengers to Rome to announce his acclamation, but those messengers were intercepted by Severus. A deal was struck between Severus and Albinus that kept Albinus in Britain with the title of Caesar. The larger armies of the western provinces were now united in their support for Severus. Niger's support was confined to the east. Severus had Niger's children captured and held as hostages, and a legion was sent to confront Niger's army in Thrace.

The first conflict between the rival armies took place near Perinthus. Although Niger's forces may have inflicted greater casualties on the Severan troops, Niger was unable to secure his advance; he returned to Byzantium. By the autumn of 193, Severus had left Rome and arrived in the region, though his armies there continued to be commanded by supporters. Niger was offered the chance of a safe exile by Severus, but Niger refused.

Severan troops crossed into Asia at the Hellespont and near Cyzicus engaged forces supporting Niger under the command of Aemilianus. Niger's troops were defeated. Aemilianus attempted to flee but was captured and killed. Not long after, in late December 193 or early January 194, Niger was defeated in a battle near Nicaea and fled south to Antioch. Eastern provincial governors now switched their loyalty to Severus, and Niger faced revolts even in Syria. By late spring 194, the Severan armies were in Cilicia preparing to enter Syria. Niger and his army met the Severan troops near Issus. The battle was a decisive defeat for Niger, who fled back to Antioch. The Syrian capital that only one year earlier had cheered as Niger was proclaimed emperor now waited in fear for the approach of its new master. Niger prepared to flee once more, but outside Antioch he was captured and killed.

Despite his popularity with the Roman mob, Pescennius Niger lacked both the strong loyalty of other senatorial commanders and the number of soldiers that his rival Severus enjoyed. Niger was ultimately unable to make himself the true avenger of Pertinax, and his roughly one-year control of the eastern provinces never qualified him to be reckoned a legitimate emperor.

BITHYNIA, Caesarea. Pescennius Niger. AD 193-194. Æ 22mm (6.35 g). Laureate head right / KAICAREIAC GERMANIKHC, coiled serpent left. RG p. 282, 9, pl. XLIV, 8 (same dies); SNG Copenhagen -; SNG von Aulock -. Near VF, brown patina, rough surfaces. Very rare. Ex-CNG2 commentsecoli

321. CarinusMarcus Aurelius Carinus, Roman emperor, 283 - July, 285, was the elder son of the emperor Carus, on whose accession he was appointed governor of the western portion of the empire. He fought with success against the German tribes, but soon left the defence of the Upper Rhine to his legates and returned to Rome, where he abandoned himself to all kinds of debauchery and excess. He also celebrated the ludi Romani on a scale of unexampled magnificence.

After the death of Carus, the army in the East demanded to be led back to Europe, and Numerianus, the younger son of Carus, was forced to comply. During a halt at Chalcedon, Numerianus was murdered, and Diocletian, commander of the body-guards, was proclaimed emperor by the soldiers. Carinus at once left Rome and set out for the East to meet Diocletian. On his way through Pannonia he put down the usurper Marcus Aurelius Julianus, and encountered the army of Diocletian in Moesia. Carinus was successful in several engagements, and at the battle on the Margus (Morava), according to one account, the valour of his troops had gained the day, when he was assassinated by a tribune whose wife he had seduced. In another account, the battle is represented as having resulted in a complete victory for Diocletian.

Carinus has the reputation of having been one of the worst of the emperors.

Carinus. 283-285 AD. ? Antoninianus. Antioch mint. IMP C M AVR CARINVS NOB C,radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right / VIRTVS AVGGG Carinus standing right, holding sceptre and receiving Victory from Jupiter standing left, holding long sceptre; B/XXI. RIC 208F. 1 commentsecoli

509. Jovian09. Jovian39 viewsJovian was born at Singidunum in A.D. 330, the son of the commander of Constantius II's imperial bodyguards. He also joined the guards and by A.D. 363 had risen to the post that his father had once held. He accompanied the Roman Emperor Julian on the disastrous Mesopotamian campain of the same year against Shapur II, the Sassanid king. After a small but decisive engagement the Roman army was forced to retreat from the numerically superior Persian force. Julian had been mortally wounded during the retreat and Jovian seized his chance. Some accounts have it that on Julian's death Jovian's soldiers called out "Jovianus!" The cry was mistaken for "Julianus", and the army cheered Jovian, briefly under the illusion that the slain Emperor had recovered from his wound.

Shapur pressed his advantage and Jovian, deep inside Sassanid territory, was forced to sue for peace on very unfavourable terms. In exchange for safety he agreed to withdraw from the provinces east of the Tigris that Diocletian had annexed and allow the Persians to occupy the fortresses of Nisbis, Castra Maurorum and Singara. the King of Armenia, Arsaces, was to stay neutral in future conflicts between the two empires, and was forced to cede some of his kingdom to Shapur. The treaty was seen as a disgrace and Jovian rapidly lost popularity.

After arriving at Antioch Jovian decided to hurry to Constantinople to consolidate his position.

Jovian was a Christian, in contrast to his predecessor Julian the Apostate, who had attempted a revival of paganism. He died on February 17, 364 after a reign of eight months.

Jovian AE3. D N IOVIA NVS P F AVG, diademed, draped & cuirassed bust right / VOT V MVLT X inside wreathecoli

94. Carinus.Antoninianus, 283 - 285 AD, Rome mint.
Obverse: IMP C M AVR CARINVS AVG / Radiate bust of Carinus.
Reverse: FIDES MILITVM / Fides standing, holding two standards. K A E in exergue.
3.21 gm., 21 mm.
RIC #252.

According to Gibbon (XII), Carinus "was more than commonly deficient" in the qualities of virtue and prudence. He "displayed . . . the extravagancies of Elagabalus, aggravated by the cruelty of Domitian." It is said that he married no less than 9 wives, although we know the name of only one of them. However, Carinus must have been a fairly competent general since he defeated two formidable rebels -- Julianus and Diocletian. He was murdered by one of his officers (had an affair with the officer's wife) shortly after his victory, and the empire fell into the hands of Diocletian.Callimachus

A135-30 - Juliano II (360 - 363 D.C.)AE1 Doble maiorina 27x29 mm 7.6 gr.

Anv: "DN FL CL IVLI - ANVS P F AVG" - Busto diademado, con coraza y Paludamentum (capote militar) sobre ella, viendo a derecha.
Rev: "SECVRITAS REI PVB" – Toro a la derecha, viendo al frente, arriba de la cabeza dos estrellas. "•HERACL•B" en exergo.

Este reverso puede representar al toro Ápis (Dios solar, de la fertilidad, y posteriormente de los muertos, en la mitología egipcia) una imagen de culto perdida que se redescubrió durante el reinado de Juliano II. Éste es el último tipo pagano en la acuñación romana.

Acuñada: 3 Nov. 361 – 26 Jun. 363 D.C.
Ceca: Heraclea (Off.1ra.)
Rareza: S

Referencias: RIC Vol.VIII (Heraclea) #103B Pag.438 - Cohen Vol.VIII #38 Pag.48 - DVM #25 Pag.304 - Salgado MRBI Vol.III #8914.g.2 Pag.235 - Sear RCTV (1988) #4072 – G.Elmer “Die kupfergeldreform unter Julianus Philosophus” #83 – O.Voetter “Die münzen der romischen Kaiser vsw, von Diocletianus bis zum Romulus. Katalog der Sammlung Gerin” (Vienna, 1921) #4
mdelvalle

APOLLONI SANCTO. GENIO ANTIOCHENI, Tyche of Antioch/ ApolloMaximinus II Daia (309-313 AD), 16mm, 1.3g. APOLLONI SANCTO. GENIO AN-TIOCHENI, Tyche of Antioch, turreted, wearing cloak and veil, seated facing on rock; at her feet, river god Orontes swimming right / APOLLONI – SANCTO / G / SMA Apollo, wearing long dress and himation, standing facing, head turned left, holding cithara with his left hand, patera in his right hand, C. 1 (Julianus II). Van Heesch, NC 1993, 66, 3a. Minted ca.310-311 A.D. Ex David LiebertPodiceps

Carrhae in Mesopotamia, Septimius Severus, AE 24, Lindgren 2557Carrhae in Mesopotamia, Septimius Severus, AE 24, 193-211 AD
Av.: CEΠTIMIOC [CE]OY.... , naked (laureate?) bust of Septimius Severus right
Rv.: ..Λ]OY KAPPH ΛKA... , front view of a tetrastyle temple, the temple of the moon god Sin, in the middle a sacred stone on tripod, on top of stone: crescent, standards (with crescents on top) on both sides inside the building; another crescent in the pediment.
Lindgren 2557 ; BMC p. 82, #4

The city and the region played an important role in roman history.

Carrhae / Harran, (Akkadian Harrânu, "intersecting roads"; Latin Carrhae), an ancient city of strategic importance, an important town in northern Mesopotamia, famous for its temple of the moon god Sin, is now nothing more than a village in southeastern Turkey with an archeological site.
In the Bible it is mentioned as one of the towns where Abraham stayed on his voyage from Ur to the promised land. Abraham's family settled there when they left Ur of the Chaldeans (Genesis 11:31-32).
Inscriptions indicate that Harran existed as early as 2000 B.C. In its prime, it controlled the point where the road from Damascus joins the highway between Nineveh and Carchemish. This location gave Harran strategic value from an early date. It is frequently mentioned in Assyrian inscriptions about 1100 BC, under the name Harranu, or "Road" (Akkadian harrānu, 'road, path, journey' ).
During the fall of the Assyrian Empire, Harran became the stronghold of its lasts king, Ashur-uballit II, being besiged and conquered by Nabopolassar of Babylon at 609 BC. Harran became part of Median Empire after the fall of Assyria, and subsequently passed to the Persian Achaemenid dynasty.
The city remained Persian untill in 331 BC when the soldiers of the Macedonian king Alexander the Great entered the city.
After the death of Alexander on 11 June 323 BC, the city was claimed by his successors: Perdiccas, Antigonus Monophthalmus and Eumenes. These visited the city, but eventually, it became part of the Asian kingdom of Seleucos I (Nicator), the Seleucid empire, and capital of a province called Osrhoene (the Greek term for the old name Urhai).
The Seleucids settled Macedonian veterans at Harran. For a century-and-a-half, the town flourished, and it became independent when the Parthian dynasty of Persia occupied Babylonia. The Parthian and Seleucid kings both needed the buffer state of Osrhoene which was part of the larger Parthian empire and had nearby Edessa as its capital. The dynasty of the Arabian Abgarides, technically a vassal of the Parthian "king of kings" ruled Osrhoene for centuries.

Carrhae was the scene of a disastrous defeat of the Roman general Crassus by the Parthians. In 53 BC. Crassus, leading an army of 50.000, conducted a campaign against Parthia. After he captured a few cities on the way, he hurried to cross the Euphrates River with hopes of receiving laurels and the title of “Emperor”. But as he drove his forces over Rakkan towards Harran, Parthian cavalry besieged his forces in a pincers movement. In the ensuing battle, the Roman army was defeated and decimated. The battle of Carrhae was the beginning of a series of border wars with Parthia for many centuries. Numismatic evidence for these wars or the corresponding peace are for instance the "Signis Receptis" issues of Augustus and the “Janum Clusit” issues of Nero.
Later Lucius Verus tried to conquer Osrhoene and initially was successful. But an epidemic made an annexation impossible. However, a victory monument was erected in Ephesus, and Carrhae/Harran is shown as one of the subject towns.
Septimius Severus finally added Osrhoene to his realms in 195. The typical conic domed houses of ancient Harran can be seen on the Arch of Septimius Severus on the Forum Romanum.
Harran was the chief home of the moon-god Sin, whose temple was rebuilt by several kings. Sin was one of the great gods of the Assurian-Babylonian pantheon.
Caracalla gave Harran the status of a colonia (214 AD) and visited the city and the temple of the moon god in April 217. Meanwhile the moon god (and sacred stones) had become a part of the Roman pantheon and the temple a place to deify the roman emperors (as the standards on both sides of the temple indicate).

Caracalla was murdered while he was on his way from Temple to the palace. If this had been arranged by Macrinus - the prefect of the Praetorian guard who was to be the new emperor – is not quite clear. On the eighth of April, the emperor and his courtiers made a brief trip to the world famous temple of the moon god. When Caracalla halted to perform natural functions, he was assassinated by one of his bodyguards, Julius Martialis, who had a private grudge against the ruler, because he had not been given the post of centurion.

In 296 AD Roman control was again interrupted when nearby Carrhae the emperor Galerius was defeated by the king Narses / the Sasanid dynasty of Persia. The Roman emperor Julianus Apostata sacrificed to the moon god in 363 AD, at the beginning of his ill-fated campaign against the Sassanid Persians. The region continued to be a battle zone between the Romans and Sassanids. It remained Roman (or Byzantine) until 639, when the city finally was captured by the Muslim armies.

At that time, the cult of Sin still existed. After the arrival of the Islam, the adherents of other religions probably went to live in the marshes of the lower Tigris and Euphrates, and are still known as Mandaeans.
The ancient city walls surrounding Harran, 4 kilometer long and 3 kilometer wide, have been repaired throughout the ages (a.o. by the Byzantine emperor Justinian in the sixth century), and large parts are still standing. The position of no less than 187 towers has been identified. Of the six gates (Aleppo gate, Anatolian, Arslanli, Mosul, Baghdad, and Rakka gate), only the first one has remained.

A citadel was built in the 14th century in place of the Temple of Sin. This lies in the south-west quarter of the ancient town. Its ruin can still be visited.

my ancient coin database
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