Antoninianus - Gallienus VIRTVS AVG
| Silver | - | - |
| 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 |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#289239 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Soldier, helmeted, in military attire, standing left, resting right hand on shield and holding spear in left hand. Officina mark in exergue.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
VIRTVS AVG
P
Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin was introduced by the Roman Emperor Gallienus in 260 AD as a replacement for the denarius, which had been the standard Roman currency for centuries. The Antoninianus was made of silver and had a higher purity level than the denarius, which had been debased over time. The coin was named after Gallienus' name, Antoninus, and it was intended to be a symbol of the emperor's efforts to restore the Roman Empire's economy and military power. Despite its introduction during a time of turmoil, the Antoninianus coin remained in circulation for over a century and became a staple of Roman commerce.