Emperor Volusianus - binio

In 2022 researchers in Hungary discovered a rare gold Roman coin of Roman emperor Volusianus.

A binio (or double aureus) of the Roman Emperor Volusianus (251–253 AD) is an extremely rare gold coin from the mid-3rd century. These coins are heavy, high-value gold pieces (5.4–5.6 grams) minted during the short reign of Volusianus and his father, Trebonianus Gallus. The denomination of the coin is not an ordinary aureus, but a rare binio, i.e. a double aureus.

The large sum was lost at the Roman site in the Roman province of Pannonia Superior. The coin was minted during his rule, between A.D. 251 and 253. One side of the coin features a portrait of the emperor, while the other side depicts Libertas, freedom.

The third-century coin depicts Emperor Volusianus, who co-ruled the Roman Empire for about two years with his father, until he was assassinated at age 22 by his own soldiers. Volusianus and his father were killed in August 253 by their own soldiers, who were terrified of the forces of the usurper Aemilian which were marching towards Rome. Estimate: 15 000 CHF. Price realized: 17 000 CHF