The Roman Empire. Gallienus, 253 – 268. Heavy aureus,

The Roman Empire. Gallienus, 253 – 268.
Heavy aureus, Mediolanum circa 262, AV 3.83 g. GALLIENVS AVG Radiate head r. Rev. VOTIS /X / ET / XX within laurel wreath. C 1353. Göbl 1065. RIC 96. Calicó 3669.

Rare. A portrait of excellent style, minor marks and an edge scuff at seven

o'clock, otherwise good extremely fine



This 'heavy aureus' was struck at the heavier standard of 80 aurei per pound. The reverse commemorates the anticipated decennalia, or 10th anniversary of Gallienus' rule, and offers a vow to undertake ten more years. Had Gallienus had the benefit of hindsight when this issue was produced, he no doubt would have inscribed it VOT X ET XV, for he only reigned for fifteen years.