The coins shown are representative examples of the grade and type, but not the actual specimens for sale. For details on NGC’s grading standards and definitions, please refer to our NGC Grading page.
This bronze coin represents a fascinating moment in Roman history when two rulers appeared on the same coinage: Emperor Aurelian and Vabalathus, son of Queen Zenobia of Palmyra. These unusual coins were minted during a brief period of political compromise before Aurelian forcefully reintegrated the breakaway Palmyrene Empire back into Roman control.
Coin Description:
Front side: Likely features the portrait of Vabalathus, with Latin inscriptions identifying him with titles reflecting his semi-autonomous status
Back side: Probably displays Emperor Aurelian's portrait or imperial symbols, acknowledging his ultimate authority over the Roman Empire
Technical Details:
Bronze composition (copper alloy)
AE denomination (bronze coinage)
NGC certified (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
Minted approximately 270-272 CE in eastern provincial mints
Condition: Certified by NGC, specific grade not provided
Historical Significance: This rare coin represents a unique political compromise during the Crisis of the Third Century. After Queen Zenobia of Palmyra established control over eastern provinces including Egypt and Syria, Emperor Aurelian initially recognized her son Vabalathus as a subordinate ruler. These joint-portrait coins reflect this arrangement, with Vabalathus acknowledged as "King" and "Leader" while still recognizing Aurelian's supreme authority. This compromise lasted only briefly before Aurelian decisively defeated Palmyrene forces and reintegrated the eastern provinces, making these coins a rare snapshot of this transitional political moment.
The coins shown are representative examples of the grade and type, but not the actual specimens for sale. For details on NGC’s grading standards and definitions, please refer to our NGC Grading page.
This bronze coin represents a fascinating moment in Roman history when two rulers appeared on the same coinage: Emperor Aurelian and Vabalathus, son of Queen Zenobia of Palmyra. These unusual coins were minted during a brief period of political compromise before Aurelian forcefully reintegrated the breakaway Palmyrene Empire back into Roman control.
Coin Description:
Front side: Likely features the portrait of Vabalathus, with Latin inscriptions identifying him with titles reflecting his semi-autonomous status
Back side: Probably displays Emperor Aurelian's portrait or imperial symbols, acknowledging his ultimate authority over the Roman Empire
Technical Details:
Bronze composition (copper alloy)
AE denomination (bronze coinage)
NGC certified (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
Minted approximately 270-272 CE in eastern provincial mints
Condition: Certified by NGC, specific grade not provided
Historical Significance: This rare coin represents a unique political compromise during the Crisis of the Third Century. After Queen Zenobia of Palmyra established control over eastern provinces including Egypt and Syria, Emperor Aurelian initially recognized her son Vabalathus as a subordinate ruler. These joint-portrait coins reflect this arrangement, with Vabalathus acknowledged as "King" and "Leader" while still recognizing Aurelian's supreme authority. This compromise lasted only briefly before Aurelian decisively defeated Palmyrene forces and reintegrated the eastern provinces, making these coins a rare snapshot of this transitional political moment.
