This bronze Roman coin dates to the reign of Emperor Valentinian I, who ruled from 364 to 375 A.D. during a tumultuous period of late antiquity marked by internal division and growing external threats to the empire. On the obverse, the emperor is depicted in profile facing right, crowned with a diadem and wearing imperial military garb. The legend, although worn, follows typical late Roman style—likely reading “DN VALENTINIANVS PF AVG,” which stands for “Dominus Noster Valentinianus Pius Felix Augustus,” translating to “Our Lord Valentinian, Dutiful and Blessed Emperor.” The reverse presents a standing Roman figure, possibly Victory or a military representation such as a soldier with standard, accompanied by the inscription “GLORIA ROMANORVM,” or “Glory of the Romans.” This slogan was widely used under Valentinian and his co-rulers as propaganda emphasizing the emperor’s military strength and divine favor in defending Rome’s frontiers. The exergue bears the mint mark “SMAQ,” identifying the coin as struck in the eastern mint of Antioch (modern-day Antakya, Turkey), a key imperial city at the time. Physically, the coin shows its age—rich in green patina from centuries of oxidation, with surface wear and pitting that slightly obscure finer details, but still retains a clear profile and partial legends. The flan is irregular but mostly round, a common feature of late Roman bronze coinage. Coins such as this circulated widely in the Eastern Roman Empire and played an essential role in both commerce and imperial messaging during a period often seen as the beginning of Rome’s transformation into the Byzantine world. At VDG Militaria, we are dedicated to providing collectors with an exceptional selection of original military antiques. Our passion for history and commitment to authenticity ensure that every item we offer is thoroughly researched, accurately described, and meticulously photographed. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of militaria, our curated inventory includes a diverse range of artifacts from various periods and conflicts. From uniforms and insignia to medals and equipment, we aim to connect you with pieces that tell the stories of the past. Our expertise and attention to detail mean you can trust that every item you purchase is genuine and precisely represented. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to make your collecting experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Using the Offer Feature We are pleased to offer a "Make an Offer" feature on our website, allowing you to negotiate the price of items that catch your eye. Once you submit an offer, expect an email from us shortly after. If your offer is accepted, the email will include a special payment link for your convenience. Please check your spam folder if you have strict email filters. We promise to respond to all offers as quickly as possible. If you do not hear from us within one business day, feel free to reach out directly via phone or text at the contact information below to ensure your request is promptly addressed. Contact Us For the fastest response, we recommend reaching out via email or text. We typically reply to emails and text messages the quickest. 📧 Email: vdgmilitaria@yahoo.com
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