CARACALLA (198-217). Denarius. Rome.

Obv: ANTONINVS PIVS AVG.
Laureate head right.
Rev: VIRTVS AVGG.
Caracalla standing facing, head right, holding spear and parazonium; to inner right, uncertain figure (Fortuna?) reclining left; to left and right, river gods reclining right and left, each holding palm frond (or reed? [right not visible here]) and leaning upon overturned urn from which liquid flows.

RIC 175.

The common description of this reverse type is a river god with two captives. However, it is fairly clear that each of the outer figures is a reclining river god, while the inner figure may still be a captive, but also could be a representation of Fortuna. It may also be pointed out that it shares its type almost perfectly with RIC 96; for each of these issues, a more detailed analysis of the dies and types is certainly wanting.

Condition: Near extremely fine, flan crack.

Weight: 20 g.
Diameter: 2.91 mm.