Antoninianus - Gallienus MARS RED AVG; Mars
| 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#289471 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Mars, standing right, holding spear and leaning on shield. Officina mark in exergue.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
MARS RED AVG
SPQR
Translation:
Mars Reditu Augusti.
Mars, who brings back the emperor (Augustus).
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin featuring Gallienus (MARS RED AVG; Mars) was issued during a time of great turmoil in the Roman Empire, known as the Crisis of the Third Century. This period saw a series of civil wars, corruption, and external invasions that threatened the empire's very existence. Despite these challenges, the coinage of this era, including the Antoninianus, remained a symbol of Roman power and influence. The image of Mars on the coin may have been intended to convey the idea of strength and military prowess, which was particularly important during this time of instability.
