Roman Coin | "Zoo Series" Gallienus Antoninianus

During the reign of the Roman Emperor Gallienus (ruled 253–268 AD), a fascinating series of coins known as the "Zoo Series" was minted. These coins were produced toward the later years of his reign, around 260–268 AD, during a time when the empire was plagued by military crises, internal rebellion, and external invasions. The series is remarkable because it features a variety of animals, many of them exotic, and each coin typically honors a particular Roman legion by depicting an animal associated with that legion. The reverse of each coin usually bears the legend naming the legion and shows the corresponding animal, such as a lion, stag, antelope, or griffin.

The Zoo Series is closely tied to Gallienus' attempts to bolster the loyalty of his military forces during a time of extreme instability. By associating each legion with a symbolic animal, Gallienus reinforced the identity and prestige of these units. The coins were minted mainly in Rome, and many of them feature the inscription “LEGIONIS” followed by the name or number of the legion. The animals on the coins were not randomly selected; they often carried symbolic meaning, representing strength, courage, speed, or ferocity—qualities admired in soldiers. While the artistic style of the coins can be somewhat crude compared to earlier Roman issues, their charm lies in the imaginative range of animals and mythical creatures depicted.

Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection: 

1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

Your coin will look very similar to the one shown in the photos. There will always be some variety, given our items are unique historical pieces. The display case included is openable so that you may easily handle and closely observe the artifact.If for whatever reason you get anything that does not fit this description you are entitled to your money back! 

Owning a Gallienus Zoo Series coin is very possible today because many examples have survived from antiquity, and Roman coins in general are surprisingly accessible to collectors. These coins were struck in large numbers, and although some varieties are rarer than others, the sheer volume produced and their survival through centuries of hoarding, loss, and archaeological recovery means that a significant number are still in circulation among dealers, auction houses, and private collections. Most surviving coins from the Zoo Series are made of billon, a low-silver alloy that has helped them endure relatively well without being melted down for precious metal content, unlike many earlier, higher-purity coins.

To acquire one, collectors typically purchase them from specialized dealers who focus on ancient coins, either through physical storefronts, large coin shows, or increasingly through online platforms.