Antoninianus - Gallienus DONA AVG; Mercury
| Silver | - | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gallienus (Publius Licinius Egnatius Gallienus) (253-268) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 260-268 |
| Value | Antoninianus (1) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#289448 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Mercury, draped, standing left, holding purse in right hand and caduceus in left hand; at his feet, dog.
Script: Latin
Lettering: DONA AVG
Translation:
Dona Augusti.
Gift of the emperor (Augustus).
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin, which was issued during the reign of Gallienus (260-268 AD), was the first Roman coin to feature the god Mercury on its reverse side. This was a significant departure from the traditional Roman coinage design, which typically featured images of the emperor or other deities. The inclusion of Mercury, who was associated with commerce and trade, reflects the growing importance of trade and commerce in the Roman Empire during this period.