Antoninianus of Aurelian (270–275 AD), struck at the mint of Cyzicus, belonging to issues produced during the period of restoration of imperial unity following the crisis of the 3rd century. Aurelian’s reign marked a turning point, as he successfully reunified the empire after its division into the Gallic and Palmyrene realms.
The obverse depicts the radiate and cuirassed bust of the emperor facing right, with the legend IMP C AVRELIANVS AVG, presenting his name and titulature as Augustus.
The reverse shows a female figure standing right, presenting a wreath to the emperor, with a star placed between them, with the legend RESTITVT ORBIS and the mintmark C✱T in the exergue. The scene is interpreted as the personification of the world (Orbis Terrarum) paying homage to the emperor, symbolizing the restoration of unity and order within the empire.
The legend RESTITVT ORBIS (“restorer of the world”) is one of the most important propagandistic slogans of Aurelian’s reign and directly refers to his military successes, including the defeat of Palmyra and the Gallic Empire. Issues bearing this reverse type strongly emphasize the emperor’s role as the restorer of imperial integrity and former power.
A well-preserved example with clear details and a noticeable amount of original silvering remaining on the surface.
Roman Imperial
Aurelian (270–275), Antoninianus 270-275, Cyzicus mint
Obverse: radiate and cuirassed bust right
IMP C AVRELIANVS AVG
Reverse: woman standing right, presenting wreath to emperor, star in lower centre, C✱T in exergue
RESTITVT ORBIS
Diameter 22 mm, weight 3.19 g
