Antoninianus - Gallienus (SALVS AVG; Salus) (260-268) front Antoninianus - Gallienus (SALVS AVG; Salus) (260-268) back
Antoninianus - Gallienus (SALVS AVG; Salus) (260-268) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Gallienus SALVS AVG; Salus

 
Silver 2.3 g 19 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
2.3 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#289194
Rarity index
88%

Reverse

Salus, draped, standing right, feeding serpent held in arms. Officina mark in exergue.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
SALVS AVG
MS

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

Comment

Mass varies: 1.92–3.32 g;
Diameter varies: 17.5–20.5 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

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 a significant departure from the traditional Roman coinage design. It featured a new portrait of the emperor, showing him with a more naturalistic and humanized appearance, rather than the usual idealized and formal depiction. This change in design was a deliberate choice by Gallienus, who wanted to present himself as a more approachable and relatable leader, and it marked a turning point in Roman coinage art.