© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Antoninianus - Gallienus VIRTVS AVG
| Silver | 2.9 g | 20.5 mm |
| 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 | 2.9 g |
| Diameter | 20.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#288920 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Soldier, standing left, resting right hand on shield and holding spear in left hand. Officina mark in right field.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
VIRTVS AVG
VI
Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.
Comment
Mass varies: 1.97–3.3 g;Diameter varies: 19.25–21 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 the first Roman coin to feature a portrait of the emperor wearing a beard. This was a departure from the traditional clean-shaven image of Roman emperors and signified a shift towards a more barbarian style of leadership. The coin's design also included the inscription "VIRTVS AVG," which translates to "the virtue of the emperor," highlighting the importance of the emperor's character and leadership qualities.
