Civilization: Roman Empire
Ruler: Valerian I
Mint: Antioch
Year: 253-260 AD
Composition: Bronze
Denomination: Antoninianus
Diameter: 20.0mm
Weight: 3.48g
Reference: RIC 216, Cohen 101; Sear 9944

Obverse
IMP C P LIC VALERIANVS AVG, radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right

Reverse
LAETITIA AVGG, Laetitia standing left holding wreath and anchor

Valerian I, Roman Emperor from 253, rose to power during a period of intense crisis for the empire. A seasoned senator and military leader, he was proclaimed emperor by his troops amid external invasions and internal instability. Valerian sought to restore order by dividing authority with his son Gallienus, who ruled the Western provinces while Valerian focused on threats in the East.

His reign faced relentless pressure from the Sassanid Empire under Shapur I. In 260, Valerian suffered a catastrophic defeat at the Battle of Edessa, becoming the first Roman emperor captured alive by a foreign enemy. His humiliating captivity, reportedly marked by severe mistreatment, symbolized the empire's vulnerabilities during the Crisis of the Third Century.

Despite his tragic end, Valerian's administrative efforts, including his delegation of power to Gallienus, laid groundwork for the eventual stabilization of the empire. His capture marked a turning point, underscoring the need for reforms that would later reshape Rome.