Antoninianus of Emperor Aurelian (AD 270–275), struck at the Mediolanum mint, belonging to issues produced during the period of restoration and consolidation of the Empire following the crisis of the 3rd century. Aurelian’s reign was marked by intensive military campaigns and the reunification of the Empire, which is clearly reflected in his coinage.
The obverse features a radiate and cuirassed bust of the emperor facing right, with the legend AVRELIANVS AVG, giving his name and titulature as Augustus.
The reverse depicts Sol standing right, his head turned left, raising his hand and holding a globe, with a captive standing to the left. The scene is accompanied by the legend ORIENS AVG and the mark Q in the exergue. Sol, as the sun god, played a central role in Aurelian’s ideology, symbolizing renewal, victory, and divine support for the emperor.
The legend ORIENS AVG (“the rising Augustus”) refers to the idea of renewal and a new beginning under Aurelian’s rule, as well as to his successes in the eastern provinces, including the defeat of Palmyra. The presence of the captive further reinforces the message of triumph over defeated enemies, making this issue a clear statement of imperial victory and power.
Roman Imperial
Aurelian (270–275), Antoninianus 270-275, Milan mint
Obverse: radiate, cuirassed bust right
AVRELIANVS AVG
Reverse: Sol standing right, head turned back, holding globe and raising right, bound captive at foot left, Q in exergue
ORIENS AVG
Diameter 23 mm, weight 3.78 g
