Egypt, Alexandria. Vabalathus (Lucius Julius Aurelianus Septimius Vabalathus) 271-272. Tetradrachm (Bronze, 21.40 mm, 8.78 g). Dated RY 5 = AD 271/2. AYT K OYABAΛΛAΘOC AΘHNO CЄB Laureate and cuirassed bust right. Rev. Radiate bust of Helios right wearing paludamentum; L Є (date) across field. Dattari 5508. Emmett 3909 (4). Milne 4349. Geissen -. BMC -. Extremely rare. Dark brown patina, Very Fine. Ex Bankhaus Aufhӓuser, Auction 7, 9-10.10.1990, lot 706. A rare and splendid coin, as out of the mint, centred and well patinated: probably the best specimen ever known. Pictures of courtly style, high relief and accurate workmanship. Vabalathus was the young and impersonal son of the powerful Zenobia, the true ruler of the Palmyrene secession destroyed in 272 AD by Aurelian's army that led them both in triumph to Rome.