The AE Antoninianus coin featuring Laelianus was minted in Cologne in AD 269 during the Roman Empire’s Crisis of the Third Century. The obverse side of the coin depicts the bust of Laelianus, facing right, with a radiate and cuirassed appearance. The inscription IMP C LAELIANVS P F AVG appears around the edge of the coin, which refers to Laelianus as Imperator Caesar Laelianus Pius Felix Augustus.

Laelianus, Antoninianus | Baldwin’s

Laelianus was a Roman usurper who declared himself emperor in Gaul during the year of the four emperors. He briefly ruled a breakaway Gallic Empire, which included parts of modern-day France, Germany, and Switzerland. Laelianus was not recognized by the Roman Senate or the other emperors, and his reign only lasted a few months before he was killed by his own soldiers.

The reverse side of the coin features the inscription VICTO-R-IA AVG, which translates to “Victory of the Emperor.” The image depicts Victory, the goddess of victory, advancing to the right while holding a wreath and palm. The depiction of Victory was a common theme on Roman coins, symbolizing military success and the emperor’s triumphs.

The coin provides a fascinating insight into the political and military history of the Roman Empire during a turbulent period of civil unrest and usurpers vying for power. The image of Laelianus on the obverse side of the coin represents his brief and ill-fated reign as emperor, while the reverse side of the coin symbolizes the ongoing military campaigns and the desire for victory and success in battle.

This particular coin is a valuable artifact of Roman history, as it offers a glimpse into the political and cultural climate of the third century AD, which was marked by political instability, military conflict, and economic decline. The coin is a testament to the power and influence of the Roman Empire during this period, as well as the complexities and challenges faced by its leaders and citizens.