Discover my collection in 3D
Virtual Gallery
Lucius Domitius Aurelianus
"Sol Invictus" Aurelian implemented a monetary reform that increased the silver content in antoniniani. The emperor was a devoted worshiper of the sun god Sol Invictus ("Unconquered Sun") and constructed a temple in Rome dedicated to this deity. He also established games in its honor, held every four years. Sol Invictus was regarded as the patron of soldiers.
In 274 CE, Aurelian elevated this cult to an official religion alongside traditional Roman practices. Scholars debate whether the new deity represented a revival of the ancient Latin Sun cult, a restoration of Heliogabalus's worship, or an entirely new creation. The god enjoyed imperial favor after Aurelian's reign and appeared on coinage up to the time of Constantine.
Denomination: Antoninianus, Billon
Obverse: Radiate and cuirassed bust of Aurelian to right, IMP C AVRELIANVS AVG
Reverse: Sol standing front, head to left, raising his right hand in salute and holding globe in his left; at his feet to left and right, two captives, ORIENS AVG, A, XXI
Mint: Cyzicus, 274 A.D.
Weight: 3,90 g
Diameter: 23mm
Provenance: Savoca Coins (silver auction)
Reference : 56.2 RIC V 154
Collection : IMPERIUM ROMANUM 06 - Military Anarchy p.2