Vabalathus and Aurelian (AD 270–272) Roman Empire BI Double-Denarius NGC VF

Vabalathus and Aurelian — Coinage of Palmyra and Rome

This billon double-denarius names both Vabalathus of Palmyra and the Roman emperor Aurelian during their brief and uneasy political relationship.

Coin Details

• Ruler: Vabalathus and Aurelian
• Reign and issue period: AD 270–272
• Empire/region: Roman Empire and Palmyrene realm
• Denomination: Double-denarius (antoninianus)
• Metal: BI (billon; silver-alloy coinage)
• NGC grade: VF — Very Fine
• Sheldon scale equivalent: 20–25
• Quantity supplied: One encapsulated coin

Vabalathus and Aurelian — Alliance Before Revolt

Vabalathus inherited Palmyrene authority under the regency of his mother Zenobia after the death of Odaenathus. Their government controlled much of the Roman East while initially acknowledging Aurelian’s senior imperial position.

The accommodation collapsed when Palmyra claimed full imperial titles. Aurelian campaigned east in AD 272, defeated Zenobia’s forces and restored the provinces to Roman control.

What This Coin Tells Us

The antoninianus was the principal radiate denomination of the period and was heavily debased. Joint-name issues expressed a carefully balanced hierarchy between Palmyrene and Roman authority.

These coins are unusually direct evidence for a temporary political compromise. Their inscriptions preserve the transition from nominal cooperation to open imperial rivalry.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one billon double-denarius naming Vabalathus and Aurelian in an NGC Ancients holder with the stated grade. A specific mint, reverse design, inscription, weight or diameter is not promised unless expressly stated above.

Stock-photo notice: The photographs are representative of the product offering. The coin supplied may differ from the pictured example in portrait style, reverse design, inscriptions, centering, toning, surface appearance and other individual characteristics while remaining within the stated coin type and any expressly stated grade.