© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Gallienus VIRTVS AVGG S C
| Bronze | 20 g | 28.5 mm |
| 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 | 20 g |
| Diameter | 28.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#286848 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Soldier, helmeted, in military attire, standing left, holding spear in right hand and leaning on shield with left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VIRTVS AVGG S C
Translation:
Virtus Augustorum. Senatus Consultum.
Courage of the emperors (Augusti). Decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 13.9–26.13 g;Diameter varies: 26–30.8 mm;
Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Sestertius - Gallienus (VIRTVS AVGG S C) coin is that it features a unique blend of Roman and Greek influences in its design. The obverse side of the coin depicts the bust of Gallienus, the Roman emperor who ruled from 253 to 268 AD, while the reverse side features a representation of the goddess Victory (VIRTVS) standing on the prow of a ship, which is a common motif in Greek art. This fusion of Roman and Greek elements reflects the cultural exchange and blending that occurred during the Roman Empire's expansion into Greek territories.
