2020-02-26 Wed

Valentinian I, also known as Valentinian the Great was Roman Emperor reigning from 364 to 375. Born in AD 321 to a Pannonian soldier of peasant stock, he followed his father into the army, becoming a cavalry officer and winning distinction under Constantius II. Valentinian accepted the acclamation on 26 February 364. He skillfully and successfully defended the frontiers of the Western Empire against Germanic invasions. Due to the successful nature of his reign and the rapid decline of the empire after his death, he is often considered to be the "last great western emperor".

The above shown gold Solidus of Valentinian issued from Milan mint. The obverse of a coin depicts the pearl diademed, draped and cuirassed bust of Valentinian right. The reverse of coin engraved emperor standing facing, head right, labarum with the hook on staff and Christogram on the banner in the right hand and in left-hand Victory bearing wreath on the globe; MED in exergue.

Image Source: Heritage Auctions