Valerian, 253-260, Antoninianus

Valerian I, Antoninianus, AR, reign 253–260, Antioch mint, 3.41 g, 22 mm. Obverse with radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Valerian I right, legend IMP C P LIC VALERIANVS AVG. Reverse depicting Virtus standing left, holding spear and leaning on shield, legend VIRTVS AVGG. Well-centered with clear legends on both sides; devices distinct. RIC V Valerian 292.

Struck during Valerian I’s joint rule with Gallienus, the VIRTVS AVGG type invokes the martial virtue and legitimacy of the emperors at a time of sustained military pressure on multiple frontiers and internal instability. Antioch served as a principal eastern mint, supplying coinage for regional armies and administration during campaigns and defensive operations in the eastern provinces.