Antoninianus - Gallienus VIRTVS AVG; Mars
| 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#288901 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Mars, standing left, holding globe in right hand and spear in left hand; his foot on helmet.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVS AVG
Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin featuring Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG; Mars) was minted during a time of great turmoil in the Roman Empire. The empire was facing numerous challenges, including invasions by barbarian tribes, internal power struggles, and economic instability. Despite these challenges, the coinage of the time remained consistent, with the Antoninianus denomination being introduced during the reign of Gallienus (260-268 AD) as a replacement for the earlier denarius. This coin features the image of Mars, the Roman god of war, on the reverse, symbolizing the empire's military prowess and power.