Description
Royal class gift such as this 1800 years old coin for Roman Emperor Valerian can really leave a shocking impact on anyone receiving it !
House of Emirates is thrilled to offer you such a coin.
Roman Empire
Roman Emperor Valerian
Bilon Antoninian
Date: 253 – 260 AD
Diameter: 20 mm
Weight: 4.00g
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Valerian (Publius Licinius Valerianus, c. 195–264 AD) was a Roman emperor who ruled from 253 to 260 AD. He is remembered for his tumultuous reign during a time of significant challenges for the Roman Empire, including external invasions, internal instability, and the ongoing crisis of the 3rd century.
Key Points About Valerian:
- Rise to Power:
Valerian was a prominent Roman general and statesman before becoming emperor. He rose to power after the assassination of Emperor Trebonianus Gallus and quickly consolidated his rule. - Joint Rule with Gallienus:
Valerian appointed his son Gallienus as co-emperor, with the aim of managing the empire’s vast territories more effectively. Valerian focused on the eastern provinces, while Gallienus dealt with issues in the west. - Conflict with the Sassanian Empire:
Valerian’s reign was marked by a major conflict with the Sassanian Empire, led by Shapur I. This war culminated in Valerian’s disastrous defeat and capture at the Battle of Edessa in 260 AD. - Capture and Humiliation:
Valerian’s capture by Shapur I was unprecedented and a significant blow to Roman prestige. He is said to have been humiliated in captivity, allegedly forced to kneel as a footstool for Shapur and reportedly executed after years of imprisonment. Accounts also claim his body was skinned and displayed, although these details come from hostile sources. - Legacy and Impact:
Valerian’s capture underscored the severe challenges facing the Roman Empire during the 3rd century crisis. It also left his son Gallienus to deal with the empire’s difficulties alone, which further strained Roman stability. - Historical Interpretations:
Ancient and modern historians view Valerian’s reign as emblematic of the empire’s vulnerabilities during the 3rd century. His capture, while a personal and imperial disaster, highlighted the resilience of the Roman system in ultimately surviving these crises.
Despite his tragic end, Valerian’s efforts to stabilize the empire and his military campaigns illustrate the challenges faced by Roman emperors during one of the most turbulent periods in the empire’s history.