Antoninianus - Gallienus (SALVS AVG; Asclepius) (260-268) front Antoninianus - Gallienus (SALVS AVG; Asclepius) (260-268) back
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Antoninianus - Gallienus SALVS AVG; Asclepius

 
Silver 2.7 g 21 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
2.7 g
Diameter
21 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#289191
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Asclepius, bare to waist, standing left, resting right hand on hip and holding serpent-entwined staff in left hand. Officina mark in exergue.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
SALVS AVG
MP

Translation:
Salus Augusti.
Health of the emperor (Augustus).

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Antoninianus coin featuring Gallienus and Asclepius is notable for its depiction of the Roman goddess of health, Salus, on the reverse side. Salus is shown standing left, holding a snake and a patera (a shallow dish used for libations), symbols of her association with medicine and healing. This coin was issued during a time when the Roman Empire was facing numerous challenges, including plagues and other health crises, making the image of Salus particularly relevant and poignant.