Gallienus Roman Silver Antoninianus (AD 253-268) NGC

Own a certified Roman Silver Antoninianus of Gallienus (AD 253–268), authenticated and slabbed by NGC. This coin comes from one of the most turbulent times in Roman history — a period when strong leadership was desperately needed to hold the empire together.

Gallienus, co-emperor with his father Valerian I until his father’s capture by the Persians, ruled during the height of the Crisis of the Third Century. Although he held grand ideas about his divine nature — reportedly believing himself to be a demigod — Gallienus also made crucial and lasting reforms that strengthened the Roman military.

One of his most important policies was the decision to bar members of the Senate from commanding armies. This opened military leadership to the equestrian class, promoting talented career officers rather than politically connected elites. His reforms helped create a more professional, responsive military better suited to the challenges of the era.

Despite these efforts, Gallienus faced overwhelming difficulties: revolts, invasions, economic collapse, and the secession of the Gallic Empire. Ultimately, he was assassinated during a conspiracy by his own commanders in 268 AD.

Antoninianii of Gallienus typically feature his radiate-crowned portrait on the obverse, with reverses honoring Roman virtues, military victories, or divine protection — often calling upon new cult imagery introduced during his reign.

Certified by NGC, this Silver Antoninianus offers a tangible connection to a critical and reformative period in Roman history. A perfect piece for collectors of Roman military history, reformers, or Crisis of the Third Century artifacts.