Antoninianus - Gallienus (ROMAE AETERNAE; Roma) (260-268) front Antoninianus - Gallienus (ROMAE AETERNAE; Roma) (260-268) back
Antoninianus - Gallienus (ROMAE AETERNAE; Roma) (260-268) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Gallienus ROMAE AETERNAE; Roma

 
Silver 3.5 g 21.5 mm
Description
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
Weight
3.5 g
Diameter
21.5 mm
Thickness
1.70 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#289489
Rarity index
92%

Reverse

Roma, helmeted, draped, seated left on shield, holding Victory in right hand and spear in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: ROMAE AETERNAE

Translation:
Romae Aeternae.
Everlasting Rome.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.91–4.24 g;
Diameter varies: 20.45–23 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Antoninianus coin was issued during the reign of Gallienus, who was the Roman Emperor from 260 to 268 AD. During his reign, the Roman Empire was facing numerous challenges, including invasions by barbarian tribes and internal conflicts. Despite these challenges, Gallienus was able to maintain the empire's stability and issue coins like the Antoninianus, which were used for trade and commerce throughout the empire. It's interesting to note that the coin's design features the goddess Roma on the obverse (front side), which symbolizes the eternal nature of Rome and its empire. The reverse (back side) of the coin features the emperor Gallienus, who is depicted in a military pose, signifying his role as the protector of the empire. Overall, the Antoninianus coin is a fascinating piece of history that provides insight into the Roman Empire's economic and political systems during a time of significant turmoil.