Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG; Hercules) (266-268) front Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG; Hercules) (266-268) back
Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG; Hercules) (266-268) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Antoninianus - Gallienus VIRTVS AVG; Hercules

 
Silver 3.5 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Gallienus (Publius Licinius Egnatius Gallienus) (253-268)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
266-268
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.5 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#289424
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Hercules, nude except for cloak draped over left arm, standing right, holding club in right hand and apple in left hand. Officina mark in exergue.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
VIRTVS AVG
VIIC

Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.

Comment

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Antoninianus coin featuring Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG; Hercules) was minted during a time of significant economic and political change in the Roman Empire. The coin's silver content was reduced during this period, which led to inflation and economic instability. Despite these challenges, the coin remained an important symbol of Roman power and influence, and its design featuring Hercules was meant to convey the strength and virtues of the Roman emperor.