© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Solidus - Valens VOTA PVBLCIA; Nicomedia
| Gold | 4.52 g | 22 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Valens (364-378) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 367-375 |
| Value | Solidus (1) |
| Currency | Solidus, Reform of Constantine (AD 310/324 – 395) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 4.52 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#391077 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Two emperors, nimbate, seated facing, each holding mappa and short sceptre; the emperor left raising his mappa. Between letters in exergue are captives
Script: Latin
Lettering: VOTA PV-BLCIA
Translation: State (official) vows (prayers).
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Solidus - Valens coin is that it features a unique blend of Christian and pagan imagery. On one side, it depicts an image of the Roman Emperor Valens, while on the other side, it features a representation of the Chi-Rho symbol, which is one of the earliest forms of the Christian cross. This blending of religious symbols reflects the complex religious landscape of the Roman Empire during the 4th century and highlights the ongoing struggle for religious dominance between Christianity and traditional Roman paganism.
