Sestertius - Gallienus (FIDES MILITVM S C; Fides) (255-256) front Sestertius - Gallienus (FIDES MILITVM S C; Fides) (255-256) back
Sestertius - Gallienus (FIDES MILITVM S C; Fides) (255-256) photo
© Münzsammlung des Seminars für Alte Geschichte, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 DE)

Sestertius - Gallienus FIDES MILITVM S C; Fides

 
Bronze 17.7 g 25 mm
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
Weight
17.7 g
Diameter
25 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#286845
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

Example of this type:
Münzsammlung des Seminars für Alte Geschichte, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Fides (Fidelity) on the reverse, which was a common motif on coins during the reign of Gallienus. Fides was a personification of the loyalty and fidelity of the Roman soldiers, and her image on the coin was meant to symbolize the trust and confidence that the soldiers had in their leader. This coin, in particular, is notable for its well-preserved condition and the fine details that can still be seen on its surface, making it a valuable addition to any collection of ancient Roman coins.