Antoninianus - Gallienus (SALVS AVGG; Salus) (257-258) front Antoninianus - Gallienus (SALVS AVGG; Salus) (257-258) back
Antoninianus - Gallienus (SALVS AVGG; Salus) (257-258) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Gallienus SALVS AVGG; Salus

 
Silver 3 g 21 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Gallienus (Publius Licinius Egnatius Gallienus) (253-268) Valerian (Publius Licinius Valerianus) (253-260)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
257-258
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3 g
Diameter
21 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#286373
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Salus, draped, standing left, feeding out of patera in right hand serpent rising from altar and holding sceptre in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: SALVS AVGG

Translation:
Salus Duorum Augustorum.
Health of the two emperors (Augusti).

Comment

Mass varies: 2.29–4.36 g;
Diameter varies: 21–21.3 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 (257-258 AD), was a significant departure from the traditional Roman coinage design. It featured a new portrait of the emperor, with a more naturalistic and individualized depiction, rather than the usual idealized image. This change in design was a reflection of the growing influence of the Renaissance movement, which emphasized realism and humanism in art. The coin's design also included the goddess Salus (Salvation) on the reverse, which was a departure from the traditional Roman coinage that featured gods and goddesses. This change was seen as a way to promote the idea of the emperor as a savior figure, and to emphasize the importance of the emperor's role in maintaining the safety and well-being of the empire.