Diadumenian – Hand-Struck Copper Coin Replica (Deultum)

Marcus Opellius Antoninus Diadumenianus or Diadumenian (208–218) was the son of the Roman Emperor Macrinus, and served his father briefly as Caesar (May 217–218) and as Augustus (in 218). Diadumenian was born in 14th of September 208 A.D or according to Historia Augusta in 19th of September 208 A.D. because he shared the same birthday with the emperor Antoninus Pius. His mother was Empress Nonia Celsa, although her existence remains dubious, because she was only mentioned by the Historia Augusta. He was born Marcus Opellius Diadumenianus, but his name was changed and added Antoninus to solidify connection to the family of Marcus Aurelius as done by Caracalla. Diadumenian had little time to enjoy his position or to learn anything from its opportunities because the legions of Syria revolted and declared Elagabalus ruler of the Roman Empire. When Macrinus was defeated on June 8, 218, at Antioch, Diadumenian followed his father’s death.
The Roman Colony of Deultum (Debelt, Bulgaria today) was founded during the reign of Vespasian on the west shore of Lake Mandren between Anchialus and Apollonia, and settled with veterans of Legio VIII Augusta. The town followed the usual Roman plan, with a very good water supply, sewers, and impressive baths with floor heating. It became one of the richest towns in the province. During the reign Mark Aurelius, Deultum was protected by large fortified walls and for centuries it served as an important communication point and a bulwark against barbarian raids. In 812 Khan Krum conquered Develt (its medieval name), banished the local residents to the north of Danube River, and resettled the town with Bulgarians.
DESIGN:
Obverse side
Bare-headed, draped bust of youthful Diadumenian left, hair shown as lines of barley-corn-like dots
Legend:
M OPEL ANTO-NINVS DIADV C

Reverse side
Male figure, togate, standing right, sacrificing over an altar. Beside him stands a lyre player and, before him on the ground is a woman, half-reclining right, holding cornucopiae in her right hand and corn-ears and a poppy in her left. Opposite the woman is a priest kneeling left with the sacrificial animal and in the background behind him is a flautist standing left
Legend:
COL FL PAC DEV-LT

A perfect choice for Numismatists, Historians, Military Veterans, Collectors.