Gallery Thumbs - Previous Image - Next Image
Reverse of This Coin - Coin List

Silver Antoninianus of Valerian I

Obverse Inscription: IMP CP LIC VALERIANVS AVG
Reverse Inscription: RESTITVT ORIENTIS
Oriens standing right presenting wreath to Valerian standing left facing her
Catalog Numbers: Sear s2896 Seaby rsc188 ric286
Grade: AVF
Obtained From: Sal Falcone in 4/97

During the reign of Valerian, the quality of both the metal and the workmanship of the coinage deteriorated badly. Most coins found today are of poor billon containing 10 to 30 percent silver. Additionally, many are poorly struck and the quality of the workmanship on the portrait and lettering is poor. The great economic crisis of the Third Century was gathering momentum and would soon break with full force during the reign of Valerian's son and successor, Gallienus. This coin exhibits very little circulation wear and is technically an EF or close to as struck. However, it is so flatly struck that its appearance is no better than a quite worn coin grading only fine.


Next Image In Gallery
Previous Image in Gallery
Return to Coin Gallery Pages
Emperor Valerian I Biographical and Historical Information.


Return to Roman Coins Table of Contents - Up one level.
Return to History and Technology Back Pages - The home page for this entire site.