Valerian Aureus, Vulcan reverse
RIC V Valerian 1 · 258 AD · Lugdunum
Obverse
Reverse
CNG, CC-BY-SA-2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
Obverse
VALERIANVS P F AVG
Bust of Valerian, laureate, draped, cuirassed, right
Reverse
DEO VOLKANO
Vulcan, draped, in temple, holding hammer in right hand and pincers in left hand; at his feet, anvil
About This Type
This RIC V Valerian 1 is an aureus of Valerian (258 AD), struck at the Lugdunum mint. The reverse depicts Vulcan, draped, in temple, holding hammer in right hand and pincers in left hand; at his feet, anvil.
About the Aureus
The aureus was the principal Roman gold denomination, struck from the late Republic through the early fourth century. It typically weighs 7–8 grams and measures 19–21mm. Because gold does not corrode, aurei often survive in exceptional condition compared to silver and bronze issues of the same period.
About the Lugdunum Mint
Lugdunum (modern Lyon, France) was the main western imperial mint from Augustus through the early second century. It was the sole mint for precious metal coinage for extended periods under Augustus and Tiberius.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is RIC V Valerian 1?
- RIC V Valerian 1 is a Gold Aureus of Valerian (258 AD) struck at the Lugdunum mint cataloged under RIC no. RIC V Valerian 1.
- How do you identify RIC V Valerian 1?
- The obverse depicts Bust of Valerian, laureate, draped, cuirassed, right with the inscription VALERIANVS P F AVG. The reverse depicts Vulcan, draped, in temple, holding hammer in right hand and pincers in left hand; at his feet, anvil with the inscription DEO VOLKANO. Portrait type: laureate.
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