Gallienus, BI Antoninianus, Samosata, 255-256 AD

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Description

Gallienus, BI Antoninianus (billon, 2.75g, 21.6mm), Samosata, 255-256 AD
Obv:  IMP C P LIC GALLIENVS P F AVG; radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Gallienus to right
Rev: VIRTVS AVGG; the two Emperors standing facing each other, both holding a spear each, one holding Victory and the other a globe; star in field above
Ref:  RSC 1310a; MIR 1703r Rarity/Choice: Common, aEF (minor deposit, otherwise beautiful and sharply struck)
Note: Publius Licinius Egnatius Gallienus was a Roman Emperor who co-reigned with his father Valerian from AD 253 until Valerian’s capture in AD 260, after which Gallienus ruled alone until AD 268. His reign was marked by significant challenges, including external invasions, internal revolts, and the eventual fragmentation of the Roman Empire, leading to what is known as the Crisis of the Third Century. Despite these difficulties, Gallienus implemented military reforms that would later help stabilize the empire. The obverse features a radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Gallienus facing right. The radiate crown, a common feature of the Antoninianus, symbolizes the emperor’s divine favor and connection to the sun god Sol. The drapery and cuirass emphasize Gallienus’s imperial dignity and his role as a military leader.  The reverse depicts the two emperors, Gallienus and Valerian, standing facing each other. Each emperor holds a spear, a symbol of military power and authority. One emperor holds Victory, personified as a small figure, while the other holds a globe, symbolizing dominion over the world. The star in the field above signifies divine favor or an auspicious event.

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