AD 253-260 Roman Empire Valerian I BI Double Denarius NGC Ch VF

Why add this Billon Double-Denarius of Roman Emperor Valerian I to your collection?

Valerian was the Roman Empire's Emperor from AD 253-260, co-ruling with his son Gallienus. His time on the throne was abruptly cut short in AD 260, when he was captured by Sassanian Persian King Shapur I during truce negotiations following the Battle of Edessa. Valerian is noted in history as the only Emperor to be held as a prisoner of war. He reportedly endured approximately five years of numerous methods of torture before perishing in captivity. This Billon Double-Denarius struck at the Roman Mint during Valerian's reign measures about 23 mm in diameter.

Imagery Celebrating the Roman God of the Sky and Lightning

The obverse features the radiate crowned image of the Emperor, encircled by the inscription "IMP C P LIC VALERIANVS AVG," which stands for "Emperor Caesar Licinius Valerianus, August."

Jupiter is depicted enthroned on the reverse, holding a patera (shallow libation bowl) and a scepter, with an eagle standing near his feet. The surrounding inscription "PACATORI ORBIS" translates from Latin as a phrase honoring Jupiter: "to the pacifier of the world."

Choice Very Fine Ancient Coin

This Billon Double-Denarius, struck AD 253-260 for Roman Emperor Valerian I, has been graded Choice Very Fine (Ch. VF) by NGC Ancients, the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation's ancient coin division. The coin will feature qualities of strike and surface equivalent to those expected on a coin earning a Sheldon Scale grade of 30-35.

This Valerian I Billon Double-Denarius will make an exciting addition to your collection!