Valens, AD 364–378. AV Solidus (21 mm, 4.50 g, 6 h).

Valens, AD 364–378. AV Solidus (21 mm, 4.50 g, 6 h). Antioch mint, AD 367.

Obv. D N VALEN-S P F AVG. Pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust of Valens right.

Rev. RESTITVTOR REI PVBLICAE. Valens standing facing, head right, in military dress, holding labarum surmounted by a cross in right hand and Victory on globe in left; in exergue, ANTH.

Refs: Depeyrot 30/2; RIC IX 2(c).i var. (unlisted officina).

This handsome solidus was struck at Antioch during the reign of Valens, the younger brother of Valentinian I and co-emperor in the East. The obverse presents a finely engraved, serene portrait of the emperor, while the reverse proclaims him Restitutor Rei Publicae—“Restorer of the State.” The type evokes the emperor’s efforts to secure and revitalise imperial authority in the eastern provinces after the turbulence that followed Julian’s death.

The labarum surmounted by a cross, held in Valens’ right hand, reflects the continuing Christianisation of imperial symbolism, combining the traditional imagery of the victorious general with unmistakable religious overtones. The Antioch mint was one of the most prolific in Valens’ reign, producing solidi of consistently high style and workmanship.

Condition: Lustrous and fresh, with a lovely portrait. Minor weakness in strike and a few trivial die breaks, otherwise Extremely Fine.