Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVGG; Mars) (258-259) front Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVGG; Mars) (258-259) back
Antoninianus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVGG; Mars) (258-259) photo
© Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen (CC BY-NC 4.0 DE)

Antoninianus - Gallienus VIRTVS AVGG; Mars

 
Silver 3.4 g 21.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Gallienus (Publius Licinius Egnatius Gallienus) (253-268) Valerian (Publius Licinius Valerianus) (253-260)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
258-259
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.4 g
Diameter
21.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#286331
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Mars, in military attire, walking right, holding spear in right hand and trophy in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VIRTVS AVGG

Translation:
Virtus Augustorum.
Courage of the emperors (Augusti).

Comment

Mass varies: 1.91–4.697 g;

Example of this type:
Münzkabinett der Universität Göttingen

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Antoninianus coin featuring Gallienus (VIRTVS AVGG; Mars) was issued 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 during this period continued to be minted with high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, as seen in the intricate designs and inscriptions on the Antoninianus coin. This coin is a testament to the resilience and endurance of the Roman Empire, even in the face of adversity.