Aurelian. AD 270-275. Antoninianus 23mm, 3.55 g. Rome mint. Struck AD 274. Radiate and cuirassed bust right / Sol standing left, raising hand and holding globe; captive seated on either side; VII. RIC V 62. Near Extremely Fine. Portrait struck in high relief.

Emperor Aurelian (AD 270–275) rose from humble origins to become one of the most effective and decisive soldier-emperors of the Roman Empire in the 3rd century. He came to power during a period of great instability known as the Crisis of the Third Century. Aurelian successfully restored the unity of the Roman Empire by defeating both the breakaway Palmyrene Empire in the East and the Gallic Empire in the West.

Renowned for his military strength, strategic reforms, and strong leadership, Aurelian also improved Rome’s defenses by initiating the construction of the Aurelian Walls, which still partly stand today. He was a key promoter of the cult of Sol Invictus (the Unconquered Sun), a theme that features prominently on his Roman coins.

Although his reign was short, Aurelian’s achievements earned him the honorary title Restitutor Orbis (“Restorer of the World”) — a fitting legacy reflected in his coinage from mints across the empire.