Bronze Coin – AE 26, Roman Colonial Issue, c. 217-218 AD
Rulers: Macrinus & Diadumenian
Obv: Facing busts
Rev: Hermes standing, left
Mint: Marcianopolis
26mm, 12.30gm
Macrinus was Roman Emperor from 217 to 218. Macrinus' origin was Mauretanian, probably of mixed extraction with Punic or Punicized elements. As a member of the equestrian class he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class. Macrinus was overthrown and executed in 218.
Diadumenian was the son of the Roman Emperor Macrinus, and served his father briefly as Caesar (May 217–218) and as Augustus (in 218). He was so named due to being born with a caul that formed a 'diadem'. 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 8 June 218, at Antioch, Diadumenian's death followed his father's.
