KINGDOM OF PALMYRA - NGC XF VABALATHUS & AURELIAN Double Denarius / Antoninianus Tadmor, or "Palmyra," strategically located on the Oriental "silk road" trade route, amassed wealth in the mid-3rd century. Odenathus, a prominent figure, rose to power as a general, controlling Syria as a buffer between Rome and Persia. After Valerian's capture, Odenathus attacked the Sasanians successfully but was assassinated in 267, leaving his son Vabalathus under the regency of Zenobia. Zenobia, ambitious and younger than Odenathus, expanded her control over the eastern Roman Empire, invading Egypt within three years. With Aurelian's ascent to power, he swiftly marched to Syria. Coins minted during this period depicted Aurelian as emperor and Vabalathus, with the initials VCRIMDR, acknowledging Aurelian's authority. Despite Zenobia's initial successes, her armies succumbed to the Roman war machine. Syria and Egypt were recaptured, and Zenobia (and likely Vabalathus) were paraded in Aurelian's triumphal procession in Rome. Grade: ( XF) Extremely Fine - Certified, Graded and Encapsulated by NGC You Will Receive the Same Type of Coin and Condition Shown , Certificate Number Will Vary As Stock Photos Are Used Free USPS Ground Advantage with Tracking and Insurance!