256-260 AD. Uncertain Syrian mint. Obv: IMP C P LIC VALERIANVS PF AVG legend with radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right. Rev: RESTITVT ORIENTIS legend with turetted female figure standing right, presenting wreath to Valerian standing left, in military attire, resting on spear in left hand. RIC 287; RSC 189; Sear 9967.3.58 grams. ("). From the private collection of a retired Suffolk gentleman. Valerian was born to a distinguished Roman family and had experience as a general and an administrator. Once emperor, he arguably faced a more critical situation than any previous regime. He attempted to negotiate peace with Shapur and the Sasanids at a conference in 260 AD, but he was attacked and taken into captivity in Persia, the first Roman emperor ever to fall into the hands of a foreign power. At this point, Rome was on the brink of collapse. [No Reserve]