VC170 Trajan Decius, Tetradrachm of Antioch. Excellent Strike and Preservation.

Description

Gaius Messius Quintus Traianus Decius was a prominent politician during the reign of Philip I. His troops proclaimed him emperor after putting down a rebellion in Moesia. In 249 he defeated Philip near Verona and the Senate ratified his rule. Decius attempted to fortify Roman religion and engaged in what is now known as the Decian persecution, during which a number of prominent Christians were executed, including Pope Fabian. His rule lasted just shy of two years – both he and his son Herrenius Etruscus were killed by Goths in the battle of Abritus.
SYRIA. Antioch.
Trajan Decius, AD 249-251.
BI tetradrachm, 27mm, 13.3g, 7h; 3rd issue, 7th officina, AD 250-251.
Obv.: AYT K Γ MЄ KY TPAIANOC ΔЄKIOC CЄB; Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; Z below.
Rev.: ΔHMAPX ЄΞOYCIAC, eagle standing right on palm, head right, wreath in beak, tail left, wings spread; S C below.
Ref.: Prieur 589.
(Consignment JF19)