Aureus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVGVSTI; Hercules) (260-268) front Aureus - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVGVSTI; Hercules) (260-268) back
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Aureus - Gallienus VIRTVS AVGVSTI; Hercules

 
Gold - -
Description
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
References
Numista
N#288528
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Hercules, standing right, holding club on rock and lion-skin.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VIRTVS AVGVSTI

Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Aureus - Gallienus coin was minted during a time of significant economic and political change in the Roman Empire. The coin's design, featuring Hercules on the reverse, was meant to symbolize the strength and power of the Roman Empire, and the gold content of the coin was a reflection of the empire's wealth and prosperity. However, the coin was also minted during a period of inflation and economic instability, and its value fluctuated significantly over time. Despite these challenges, the Aureus - Gallienus coin remains a valuable and sought-after collector's item, with some examples selling for tens of thousands of dollars at auction.