Gallienus | AR Antoninianus Reference: RIC V.1 452 Date: 256-257 CE Obverse: IMP GALLIENVS AVG: Bust of Gallienus, radiate, cuirassed, right Reverse: VICTORIA GERMAN: Gallienus, in military attire, standing left, holding globe in right hand and sceptre in left hand; receiving wreath from Victory, standing right Mint: Samosata Size: 21.5 mm Weight: 3.51 grams A very nice antoninianus struck in the peculiar style of the transient Samosata mint. The Sassanid leader Shapur invaded Roman Syria in 253 and 256 CE. In both of these instances, the provincial capital and imperial mint at Antioch were besieged and sacked. Coins were desperately needed to pay for the soldiers who would ultimately repulse this Persian invasion, but with Antioch out of commission for the time being, minting responsibilities in the region shifted to the fortified city of Samosata on the north bank of the Upper Euphrates in Commagene. The reverse type ironically alludes to Gallienus' victories over the Germans over two thousand miles away on the Rhine. I'm not sure this helped to ease the fears of the Roman Syrians whose cities were burning; but people need hope, I guess. Policies I apply the highest ethical standards in selling ancient coins. All coins are guaranteed to be genuine and any item found to be otherwise may be returned for a full refund. The most important thing is that you are happy with your new coin(s)! All coins are shipped in PVC-free, archival-grade coin flips and inserts made of acid-free paper Domestic (USA) shipping only, except for international shipments through eBay International Shipping program. If you purchase multiple items please message me before you pay and I will combine the shipping for you. I accept all returns within 30 calendar days upon receipt of the item. No explanation is required for the return, but it would be appreciated. Any item which has been altered from its original state may not be returned. Don't see what you're looking for? Just shoot me a message, I might have it but haven't gotten around to listing it!