Gallienus. AD 253-268. Antoninianus 21mm, 3.96 g. Rome

Gallienus is one of the most intriguing emperors of the late Roman Empire. His reign was marked by crisis and reform, and his coinage reflects an empire clinging to unity through divine symbolism. Gallienus promoted the cult of Sol and issued coins featuring numerous deities, including Jupiter, Diana, and Libertas.

He co-ruled with Valerian until AD 260, after which he governed alone, fighting rebellions and external threats. His introduction of a mobile cavalry corps influenced Roman military structure for decades. Gallienus’ artistic and symbolic coinage provides deep insight into the empire’s spiritual and political messaging during one of its darkest chapters.