The Lion of Chaeronea

Coin minted ca. 280 CE by the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius Probus (r. 276-282). Probus is shown in the company of Sol Invictus ("Unconquered Sun"), a late form of the solar deity whose worship had been promoted by Probus' predecessor Aurelian. The birthday of Sol Invictus (Dies Natalis Solis Invicti) was traditionally celebrated on Dec. 25. On this coin, Probus, who was constantly on campaign during his brief reign, is shown prepared for battle with shield and spear, alongside Sol Invictus, who wears his characteristic radiant crown. Now in the National Museum of Denmark, Copenhagen. Photo credit: ChrisO/Wikimedia Commons.

Mithras, identified by the inscription with Sol Invictus ("Unconquered Sun"), slays a bull (the traditional type-scene known as the tauroctony); Sol and Luna (Sun and Moon) look on, while a dog and a snake lap up the fallen bull's blood.  Plaque dedicated by the imperial slave Atimetus; unknown Roman artist, probably 3rd cent. CE.  Now in the Vatican Museum.