VALERIAN I
253–260 AD
Publius Licinius Valerianus came to power during one of the most turbulent phases of the third‑century crisis. A seasoned senator and administrator, he attempted to stabilise the empire through shared rule with his son Gallienus. His reign was dominated by external threats, particularly the aggressive expansion of the Sassanian Empire. In AD 260, Valerian suffered the unprecedented humiliation of being captured alive by Shapur I, an event that shocked the Roman world and severely undermined imperial prestige. His coinage reflects traditional themes of divine protection and military authority, often contrasted with the instability of the period.
CLICK ON THUMBNAILS TO ENLARGE
WRS 9313 — Antoninianus
Ar Antoninianus. IOVI CONSERVAT. Jupiter standing left; S in left field. RSC 88. From a collection formed in the 1960's and 70's.
£65.00
