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Valerian (emperor)

Reece Period attributed: Period 12

Member of the Third Century Emperors dynasty.

Coins for this issuer were issued from 253 until 260.

Publius Licinius Valerianus was of noble descent and succeeded Aemilian by proclaiming himself emperor and killing his predecessor. The Senate approved of him and immediately elevated his son Gallienus to co-ruler; hope was that the two could bring order to the troubled empire.

Valerian dealt with Syria and the Persians; he had initial success and was granted the title “Restorer of the Orient”. Gallienus took care of the Germans. However, Valerian’s successes grew fewer and he stupidly agreed to negotiate with the Persian king accompanied only by a small retinue. The Persian king took Valerian captive, and he died in captivity.

View all coins recorded by the scheme attributed to Valerian (emperor).

Latest examples recorded