This coin, minted in Gaul, is an Antoninianus (which was first introduced by Caracalla in 215 AD and is worth about 2 denarii) and features Valerian II. Valerian II was the son of Emperor Valerian, who co-ruled with his father, Valerian, from 253-260 AD. When Gallienus ascended to the throne he immediately made Valerian’s son, Valerian II, his Caesar, a position he held until his death in or around 255 AD. The obverse features Valerian (he was only around the age of 15 when he became a Caesar), donning a radiate crown. The legend of DIVO VALERIANO CAES(ar) [meaning God, Caesar Valerian] around the image indicates that Caesar Valerian, at the time of this coins minting, has become a god. The reverse image reinforces this fact by featuring an eagle (a very common symbol of apotheosis in ancient Rome). Above this scene is the legend CONSECRATIO (meaning deification), further indicating that this coin was created to commemorate the deification of the emperor’s son. Since this coin was minted in order to observe the deification of Valerian II this coin was probably made posthumously around 255 AD. Lauren Brooks 2011.