Aureus - Gallienus VIRTVS AVG; Mars
| 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#288526 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Mars, draped, standing left, holding globe in right hand and sceptre in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVS AVG
Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Aureus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVG; Mars) coin is that it features a unique combination of imagery and inscription. On one side, the coin depicts a portrait of Emperor Gallienus, while on the other side, it shows a representation of the god Mars, who was considered the protector of the Roman state. The inscription "VIRTVS AVG" translates to "The Virtue of the Emperor," highlighting the importance of the emperor's virtues in maintaining the empire's prosperity and security. This coin is a rare and valuable example of Roman imperial coinage and offers a fascinating glimpse into the political and religious beliefs of the Roman Empire during the 3rd century AD.