Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG) (267-268) front Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG) (267-268) back
Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG) (267-268) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Gallienus VIRTVS AVG

 
Silver 3.5 g 21 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Gallienus (Publius Licinius Egnatius Gallienus) (253-268)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
267-268
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.5 g
Diameter
21 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#289404
Rarity index
91%

Reverse

Soldier, helmeted, in military attire, standing right, holding spear in right hand and resting left hand on shield. Officina mark in exergue.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
VIRTVS AVG
PXV

Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.

Comment

Mass varies: 3.11–4.02 g;
Diameter varies: 19.75–22 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 was meant to convey the idea of a strong and powerful leader, capable of defending the empire against external threats.