Coin of Berytus under Elagabalus c. 218 - 222

Editor: Here we have a coin of Berytus under Elagabalus. It’s small, weathered, but still carries the weight of history. What do you make of it? Curator: It whispers stories, doesn't it? Elagabalus was quite the character. The coin is a little window into his reign, a physical embodiment of power and, perhaps, excess. Look closely at the temple depicted on one side. Do you notice anything unusual about it? Editor: I think I see it. It’s not as symmetrical as I expect. Curator: Exactly! It's a subtle sign that things weren’t always as they seemed under Elagabalus’ rule. It’s almost a wink from the past. I love that! Editor: Me too. I’ll never look at coins the same way again.