Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG) (259-256) front Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG) (259-256) back
Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG) (259-256) photo
© John Conduitt (CC BY-SA)

Antoninianus - Gallienus VIRTVS AVG

 
Silver 2.6 g 22 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
259-256
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.6 g
Diameter
22 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#286270
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Gallienus, standing right, holding spear in right hand, receiving Victory from Roma, standing left, with spear and shield.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VIRTVS AVG

Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Antoninianus coin , which features Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG) on one side and an eagle on the other, was part of a series of coins issued during his reign that were meant to promote the ideals of military virtue and imperial power. Despite being made of silver, these coins were not as valuable as some of the earlier Roman coins, as the empire was facing economic difficulties at the time. However, they are still highly sought after by collectors today due to their historical significance and aesthetic appeal.