Usurper Uranius Antoninus Extremely Rare AR Tetradrachm Seleucis and Pieria, Emesa 253-254 AD Ancient Greek Silver Coin Museum Reproduction CSGT0085

Julius Aurelius Sulpicius Uranius Antoninus was a usurper who rose to power in Syria. Uranius was known as the priest-king. He successfully defended Emesa against the Persian invasion led by Shapur I in 253AD. Although the Persians succeeded in sacking Antioch, they withdrew from the region. Uranius was proclaimed perhaps a local ruler or emperor during the turbulent year of 253AD, which marked the fall of Aemilian and the rise of power for Valerian I.
Uranius Antoninus is unknown from the ancient literary sources, although the historian Zosimus perhaps confuses him with two usurpers during the reign of Severus Alexander, whom he names “Uranius” and “Antoninus.” Based upon this coinage, it appears that it was just one usurper of this name Uranius Antoninus located in Emesa, modern-day Hobs in Syria. Uranius established his government at Emesa, probably in response to repeated Persian attacks rather than as a challenge to Rome. In any event, it appears he was finally subdued when Valerian marched to recover the East.
When Valerian I came to power, he was forced to pay attention to the East. He arrived in Antioch around 254 AD and spent much of his remaining time in the region. Uranius’ rebellion was easily suppressed by Valerian I for which he received the title “Restorer of the Human Race.”
The precise events that led to Uranius’ death have escaped history. It is known by his coinage that he coined money at both Emesa and Antioch suggesting that perhaps he had taken Antioch following the withdrawal of the Persian forces. His coinage also attempts to draw a connection with Elagabalus who also struck aureii displaying the Stone of Emesa, the black stone believed to have been thrown to earth by the gods during Elagabalus’ reign. It is highly doubtful that there was a blood connection between the two men. The only common bond was their shared office of high priest in the city of Emesa.
DESIGN:
Obverse side
Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Uranius Antoninus to right
Legend:
AVTO K COV CЄOVHPOC ANTΩNINOC CЄ

Reverse side
Saddled dromedary standing right
Legend:
ΔΗΛΜΑΡΧ ЄΞΟVCΙΑΛC VΠ Β / S-C in field

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