Valerian I, BI Antoninianus, Antioch Mint, 254-255 AD – Venus – RR

$130.00

- + - +
SKU: R4.18 Categories: ,
Share On:

Description

Roman Imperial, Valerian I, 253-260 AD, BI Antoninianus (billon, 3.35g, 20.5mm), Antioch Mint, 254-255 AD
Obv: IMP C P LIC VALERIANVS AVG; Bust of Valerian, radiate, draped, right
Rev: VENVS VICTRIX; Venus, draped, standing left, holding helmet in right hand and spear in left hand, leaning left on shield
Ref: MIR 36, 1573a; RIC V 222 Rarity/Choice: Scarce, VF
Note: Valerian I was a Roman emperor who ruled from 253 to 260 AD. His rule covered the entire Roman Empire, but it was a time fraught with crises, including external invasions by the Persians and Goths and internal challenges like the plague and political instability. The Antoninianus was a billon coin, which means it was primarily composed of a bronze core with a thin silver coating. By Valerian I’s time, the coin’s silver content had significantly decreased due to the economic difficulties of the empire. Nevertheless, the Antoninianus remained an important denomination in the Roman monetary system. The obverse, featuring Valerian’s radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust, emphasizes his authority and divine favor. The reverse, depicting Venus leaning on a shield and holding a helmet and scepter, conveys themes of protection, military readiness, and victory, reinforcing Valerian’s image as a capable and determined ruler. This coin not only facilitated economic transactions but also served as a powerful tool of imperial propaganda, aimed at legitimizing Valerian’s rule and garnering support during a challenging period in Roman history.

Related products