Roman coin found while opening up new trench - Valens Winged Victory

While opening up a new trench we discovered this Roman coin called the Valens Winged Victory.

The Valens "Winged Victory" coin refers to a Roman coin featuring Emperor Valens (reigned AD 364–378), typically on the obverse, and a personification of Victory with wings on the reverse. These coins were part of the late Roman imperial coinage, produced during a time of significant military and political change. Here’s a general overview:

🧔 Obverse (Front) – Emperor Valens

• Portrait: Bust of Emperor Valens, usually shown diademed and draped or in military attire.

• Inscription: Often reads something like DN VALENS PF AVG, which stands for Dominus Noster Valens Pius Felix Augustus ("Our Lord Valens, Dutiful and Lucky Augustus").

🪽 Reverse (Back) – Winged Victory

• Depiction: The Roman goddess Victory, typically winged, advancing left or right, holding a wreath (symbol of triumph) and a palm branch or standard.

• Symbolism: Represents Roman military success, divine favor, and imperial legitimacy.

• Common Legend: SECVRITAS REIPVBLICAE (“Security of the Republic”) – a propaganda message reinforcing stability under Valens.

🪙 Coin Type & Composition

• Denominations: Most commonly AE3 or AE4 (bronze coins of small size).

• Metal: Bronze (with very little or no silver content in these later issues).

• Mint Marks: Indicate the city where the coin was minted (e.g., SMTS for Thessalonica, SIS for Siscia, etc.), found in the exergue (the space at the bottom of the reverse).

🗺 Historical Context

• Valens ruled the Eastern Roman Empire and was co-emperor with his brother Valentinian I.

• His reign was marked by conflicts with the Goths, Persians, and internal dissent.

• He died at the Battle of Adrianople in 378, a significant defeat for Rome.