Sear, D.R., Roman Coins and their Values 5 vols (London, Spink, 2000-2014) 7754; Seaby, H.A., Roman Silver Coins (London, B.A. Seaby, 1967) III 29; Mattingly, H.,Coins of the Roman Empire in the British Museum, 6 vols (London, 1965) 73; Mattingly, H., E.A. Sydenham, C.H. Sutherland, R.A. Carson, The Roman Imperial Coinage 13 vols (London,  Spink, 1923-1994) IV 50 no. 263.

1967.17

Denarius of Julia Maesa, reign of Elagabalus or Severus Alexander

3.130 g. AD 218 - 220

Obv.: Bust of Julia Maesa r., draped, hair waved and looped in plait on neck. IVLIA [A MA]ESA AVG(usta).

Rev.: Pietas standing l., veiled, draped, raising right hand over lighted altar, holding (incense?) box in left hand. [PI]ETAS AVG(usta).

Elagabalus’ accession in AD 218 was largely due to influence of his grandmother Julia Maesa (cf. on 1966.55). He issued coins in the name of his grandmother, his mother Julia Soaemias, and each of his three wives.

Julia Maesa survived the murder of Elagabalus and his mother in AD 222 and saw the accession of another grandson, Severus Alexander. He issued some coins in her name until her death AD c.225. After her death he issued coins honouring her deification as ‘Diua Maesa’.

This reverse type on Maesa’s coins was also issued from the East.

Sear, D.R., Roman Coins and their Values 5 vols (London, Spink, 2000-2014) 7754; Seaby, H.A., Roman Silver Coins (London, B.A. Seaby, 1967) III 29; Mattingly, H.,Coins of the Roman Empire in the British Museum, 6 vols (London, 1965) 73; Mattingly, H., E.A. Sydenham, C.H. Sutherland, R.A. Carson, The Roman Imperial Coinage 13 vols (London,  Spink, 1923-1994) IV 50 no. 263.