Sestertius - Gallienus (FIDES MILITVM S C; Fides) (255-256) front Sestertius - Gallienus (FIDES MILITVM S C; Fides) (255-256) back
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Sestertius - Gallienus FIDES MILITVM S C; Fides

 
Bronze - -
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Gallienus (Publius Licinius Egnatius Gallienus) (253-268) Valerian (Publius Licinius Valerianus) (253-260)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
255-256
Value
Sestertius (⅛)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Bronze
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#286844
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Fides, draped, standing, holding ensign in each hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: FIDES MILITVM S C

Translation:
Fides Militum. Senatus Consultum.
Loyalty of the soldiers. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Sestertius - Gallienus (FIDES MILITVM S C; Fides) coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Fides (Fidelity) on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Gallienus. Fides was considered an important virtue in ancient Rome, representing loyalty, honesty, and trustworthiness, and was often depicted holding a military standard or a shield, as seen on this coin. The inclusion of Fides on the coinage of Gallienus may have been a way to emphasize the importance of loyalty and fidelity to the Roman state and its leaders during a time of political instability and conflict.