Julia Mamaea, niece of Julia Domna and part of a powerful priestly dynasty in Emesa, Syria, entered Roman imperial history through the actions of her mother, Julia Maesa. Julia Maesa and her sister, Julia Soaemias, led a revolt that placed Mamaea's nephew, Elagabalus, on the throne. Although Mamaea’s husband was killed during the conflict, she and her young son, Severus Alexander, moved to Rome with Elagabalus, enjoying life at court. However, Elagabalus' behavior alienated Roman society, leading to growing support for Severus Alexander as a preferable alternative. When Elagabalus was assassinated in 222, the 16-year-old Severus Alexander became emperor, though actual power was exercised by his mother and a council of senators, including the jurist Ulpian.

Julia Mamaea effectively ruled the empire in her son’s name until 235, when both were killed during a revolt by the German legions. Her policies, particularly her stinginess with troop pay, caused unrest among the soldiers. Additionally, her overprotection of Severus Alexander throughout his reign made him an unsuitable leader in the eyes of seasoned frontier soldiers, further fueling dissatisfaction. This combination of factors led to their demise, marking the end of their influence on the Roman Empire.

A unique coin struck in Julia Mamaea’s honor at the Bithynian city of Tium features a remarkable reverse design depicting Zeus surrounded by the wheel of the zodiac. The precise meaning of the zodiac imagery is uncertain but may have held local astrological significance or reflected a broader dynastic theme within the Severan family. Similar zodiac motifs appeared on coins for Elagabalus, Julia Maesa, and Severus Alexander, indicating its potential importance within the Severan dynasty.

Julia Mamaea, mother of Severus Alexander; Bronze, Tium (Bithynia) circa 222-235, Æ 34 mm, 23.01 g. ΙΟΥΛΙΑ ΜΑΜΑΙΑ ΑΥΓ Diademed and draped bust r. Rev. ΤΙΑΝΩΝ Zeus, standing facing, head l., holding patera and sceptre; in l. field, eagle; in field, Gaia and Thalassa; around, the twelve signs of the Zodiac. RPC Online 30121 (this coin); Apparently unique

Ex Leu sale 50, 1990, 347