Antoninianus - Valerianus II (PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS) (254-255) front Antoninianus - Valerianus II (PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS) (254-255) back
Antoninianus - Valerianus II (PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS) (254-255) photo
© The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge

Antoninianus - Valerianus II PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS

 
Silver 3.9 g 21.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Valerian (Publius Licinius Valerianus) (253-260) Gallienus (Publius Licinius Egnatius Gallienus) (253-268)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
254-255
Value
Antoninianus (1)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.9 g
Diameter
21.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#289819
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Valerian II, standing left, holding globe or ensign in right hand and spear in left hand.

Lettering:
PRINCIPI IVVENT or
PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS

Comment

Mass varies: 3.06–4.55 g;
Diameter varies: 21–22 mm;

Example of this type:
The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Valerianus II, who was only a child when he became co-emperor with his father, Valerian, in 253 AD. Despite his young age, Valerianus II was given the title of "PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS," which translates to "Prince of Youth," reflecting the Roman Empire's emphasis on the importance of the imperial family and the succession of power.