AD 253–260 Roman Empire Valerian I BI Double-Denarius NGC Ch VF

What Was The Fate Of Emperor Valerian?

This is authentic Roman silver from one of the most turbulent periods in their history. It was also one of the most brutal, as evidenced by the manner of death of Valerian I—the man featured on this coin—who was the first Roman Emperor to be captured as a prisoner of war. Varying versions of Valerian’s death include being forced to swallow molten gold, being flayed alive, and stuffed as a trophy—among others. Yikes!

The Rise Of The Thirty Tyrants

Born in AD 195, Valerian was an elderly Roman military commander and experienced former senator who was proclaimed emperor by his troops in 253 and ruled until his capture in 260. The story of Valerian I’s untimely death begins nearly 1,800 years ago in 260 after he was captured in Persia, the result of a botched attempt to personally negotiate a truce with King Shāpūr I. This left his son Gallienus in charge, creating a chaotic power vacuum where generals from around the Roman Empire rushed to try and fill the void. Among these “Thirty Tyrants,” the general Postumus controlled the northwestern section of the empire. Upon news of Valerian’s capture, Postumus was declared emperor by his troops. The territory was ultimately surrendered back to the Roman Empire in 274.

Emperor Valerian’s Tragic Fate

In the meantime, Valerian spent the rest of his days—what little days there were—as Shāpūr’s prisoner and died in captivity. Many Romans at the time felt this was the ultimate act of cowardice and a betrayal of Rome. Most Romans felt that he dishonored the people of Rome and should have killed himself to avoid such humiliation. In hindsight, it would have better if Valerian HAD killed himself. According to contemporary accounts, Valerian spent the last days of his life in Persia as a prisoner and slave who was dragged around in heavy chains and forced to crouch down so Shāpūr could step on the captured emperor’s back to mount his horse. And the ignominy didn’t end there. Upon his death, Valerian’s skin was removed and dyed, then displayed in Shāpūr’s temple as a warning to those who would challenge his power.

BI Double-Denarius In Choice Very Fine Condition

This BI Double-Denarius coin comes graded by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) in Choice Very Fine (Ch VF) condition. Plus, each coin has been sonically sealed in a museum-quality acrylic slab. Get yours today!