Valentinian I Roman AE (AD 364-375) NGC

Own a certified Roman bronze AE of Valentinian I (AD 364–375), authenticated and slabbed by NGC. This coin represents the reign of a tough, pragmatic soldier-emperor who helped stabilize the Roman Empire after decades of internal and external threats.

Valentinian was a man of humble origins, limited formal education, but immense personal courage and strong Christian faith. A seasoned military officer, he was proclaimed emperor by the army in 364 AD. Recognizing the enormous challenge of governing the vast empire alone, Valentinian immediately divided power with his brother Valens, assigning Valens the rule of the Eastern provinces while he took control of the West.

Valentinian ruled primarily from Milan and Trier, spending much of his reign defending the Western frontier against Germanic invasions. His military leadership and administrative reforms helped temporarily strengthen Roman defenses and secure key regions such as Gaul and Britain. Despite his sometimes harsh demeanor, he was respected for his fairness in legal matters and his commitment to preserving the strength of the empire.

Valentinian died suddenly in 375 AD during a diplomatic meeting with hostile tribes, reportedly after a fit of rage caused a fatal stroke.

Bronze AE coins of Valentinian I typically feature his stern, diademed or helmeted bust on the obverse, while the reverses celebrate military victories, Roman strength, or divine favor.

Certified by NGC, this AE coin offers collectors a tangible connection to the late empire’s efforts to hold its ground amid growing pressures from all sides.