VALERIAN II (253-258)

Publius Licinius Cornelius Valerianus

"Divus Valerianus" Publius Licinius Cornelius Valerianus, known as Valerian II, was the son of Gallienus and Salonina, and the grandson of Valerian and Mariniana. He was made Caesar after his father ascended the throne as co-emperor. He died two years later, never having been elevated to the rank of Augustus.

The cause of his premature death remains unknown, though it is possible he fell victim to the lingering plague. After his death, as commemorated by this denarius, Valerian II was deified and counted among the gods.

Obverse: Radiate head of Divus Valerianus II to righ, DIVO CAES VALERIANO

Reverse: Lighted altar with two doors and two horns on top, CONSECRATIO

Mint: Rome, 258 A.D.

Weight: 2,62 g

Diameter: 20mm

Provenance: Leu Numismatik

Reference : 46.1 RIC V 24, RSC 12

Collection : IMPERIUM ROMANUM 06 - Military Anarchy p.2