Sestertius - Valerianus (VIRTVS AVGG S C) (255-256) front Sestertius - Valerianus (VIRTVS AVGG S C) (255-256) back
Sestertius - Valerianus (VIRTVS AVGG S C) (255-256) photo
© The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge

Sestertius - Valerianus VIRTVS AVGG S C

 
Bronze 14.6 g 28 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Valerian (Publius Licinius Valerianus) (253-260) Gallienus (Publius Licinius Egnatius Gallienus) (253-268)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
255-256
Value
Sestertius (⅛)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
14.6 g
Diameter
28 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#286082
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Soldier, helmeted, in military attire, standing left, resting right hand on shield and holding spear in 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: 12.57–16.64 g;

Example of this type:
The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Valerianus, who was a Roman emperor who ruled from 253 to 260 AD, on one side, and the goddess Victory on the other. This coin was minted during a time of significant political and military upheaval in the Roman Empire, and its design reflects the importance of military power and the divine right of kings during that era.