This ancient billon Antoninianus bears two rulers – Aurelian, Roman conqueror and Vabalathus, Queen Zenobia's son. Zenobia and Vabalathus ruled Palmyra, oasis city and a key stronghold for the eastern defense of the Roman Empire. But in A.D. 270, Zenobia rebelled against Roman law and invaded Egypt. She won many battles, but was finally defeated by Aurelian's army and led to Rome as a captive.


