Antoninianus - Gallienus VIRTVS AVGVSTI; Mars
| Silver | 3.1 g | 22 mm |
| 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 | 3.1 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#288927 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Mars, standing left, holding branch in right hand and spear in left hand. Officina mark in left field.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
VIRTVS AVGVSTI
X
Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin was issued during the reign of Gallienus, who was the Roman Emperor from 260 to 268 AD. During his reign, the Roman Empire was facing numerous challenges, including invasions by barbarian tribes and internal conflicts. Despite these challenges, Gallienus was able to maintain the empire's stability and issue coins like the Antoninianus, which were used for trade and commerce throughout the empire. The coin's design features Mars, the Roman god of war, on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during this period. The obverse side features an image of Gallienus, along with the inscription "VIRTVS AVGVSTI," which translates to "the virtue of the emperor." The coin's silver content and weight of 3.1 grams were also typical for coins issued during this time. Overall, the Antoninianus coin is an interesting piece of history that provides insight into the Roman Empire's economy, politics, and culture during the 3rd century AD.
