Aureus - Gallienus AETERNITAS AVG
| Gold | - | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Gallienus (Publius Licinius Egnatius Gallienus) (253-268) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 260-268 |
| Value | Aureus (25⁄2) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#288437 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Sol, radiate, standing left, raising right hand and holding globe in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: AETERNITAS AVG
Translation:
Aeternitas Augusti.
Eternity of the emperor (Augustus).
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Aureus - Gallienus (AETERNITAS AVG) coin was minted during the reign of Emperor Gallienus, who ruled the Roman Empire from 260 to 268 AD. One of the unique features of this coin is that it features a radiate crown on the obverse (front side), which was a new design element introduced by Gallienus. The radiate crown was meant to symbolize the emperor's divine nature and connection to the sun god, Sol Invictus. This design element was not seen on previous Roman coins and was a distinct departure from the traditional depiction of Roman emperors. It's also worth noting that the Aureus - Gallienus (AETERNITAS AVG) coin was made of gold, which was a valuable and prestigious metal at the time. The use of gold for coins was a symbol of the Roman Empire's wealth and power, and it was reserved for the highest denomination coins. The fact that this coin was minted using gold speaks to the importance and influence of the Roman Empire during this time period.