Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG) (260-268) front Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG) (260-268) back
Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG) (260-268) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Gallienus VIRTVS AVG

 
Silver 3.3 g 22 mm
Description
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
3.3 g
Diameter
22 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#289517
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Soldier, helmeted, in military attire, standing left, holding shield in right hand and spear in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VIRTVS AVG

Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.48–3.97 g;
Diameter varies: 20–23 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 emperor's strength and military prowess, as well as his connection to the gods and the Roman people.