Obverse: GALLIENVS AVG, Radiate head of Gallienus facing right.

Reverse: LIBERO P CONS AVG, Panther walking left.

RIC: 230. Sear: 10281. [Rome, AD 267-268].

Diameter: 22 mm. Weight: 2.7 g.

A very beautiful antoninianus of Gallienus, part of his extensive zoological series. The reverse depicts a fierce looking panther, with a legend invoking the god Liber to protect the emperor. Closely associated with Bacchus, Liber was a god of viticulture and wine, fertility and freedom. The panther being well known as one of his attendant beasts. This is a wonderful example with exceptional detail and attractive surface toning, even the texture of the panther’s coat is visible.