Roman Empire, Galerius

Obverse: Radiate, cuirassed bust of Galerius facing right.

Reverse: Jupiter presents Victory on a globe to Galerius.

• Composition: Bronze
• Denomination: Post. Ref. Radiate
• Date: AD 305-311
• NGC CERTIFICATE: 8230187-051

Galerius was born of humble parentage and had a distinguished military career. He was named Caesar in 293 and Augustus 12 years later, during the Tetrarchy period, when the Empire was divided into smaller units for ease of administration. During his reign he campaigned, aided by Diocletian, against the Sassanid Empire, sacking their capital Ctesiphon in 299. He also campaigned across the Danube against the Carpi, defeating them in 297 and 300. Although he was a staunch opponent of Christianity, Galerius ended the Diocletian Persecution when he issued an edict of toleration in 311.