Gallienus, BI Antoninianus, Samosata Mint, 253-268 AD – Valerian and Gallienus

$55.00

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SKU: R4.13 Categories: ,

Description

Roman Imperial, Gallienus, BI Antoninianus (billon, 3.32g, 21.3mm), Samosata Mint, 253-268 AD
Obv: IMP C P LIC GALLIENVS P F AVG; radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Gallienus to right
Rev: PIETAS AVGG; Valerian and Gallienus, both holding sceptre and patera, facing each other, sacrificing over lighted altar between them
Ref: RIC 446 Rarity/Choice: Common, VF
Note: Gallienus reigned as Roman Emperor from AD 253 to 268, a period characterized by considerable military and political turmoil, known as the Crisis of the Third Century. He co-ruled with his father, Valerian, until Valerian’s capture by the Persians in AD 260. Gallienus then ruled alone until his assassination. This billon Antoninianus was minted in Samosata, reflecting the empire’s attempts to maintain stability and continuity through challenging times. The imagery and inscriptions on this Antoninianus emphasize themes of piety, unity, and continuity within the ruling family. The depiction of Valerian and Gallienus together reinforces the legitimacy of Gallienus’s rule following his father’s capture, while also aiming to assure the populace of the stability and religious dedication of the emperors.