Denarius (Coin) Portraying Galerius Maximianus
SEE IT IN PERSON
Not currently on view
In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026
Discussion
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
The front (obverse) of this coin portrays the Emperor Galerius Maximianus facing right and wearing a crown of laurels. On the back (reverse) is a gate comprised of three towers. The fourth century was a time of tremendous political, social, and religious strife within the Roman Empire, but the imagery on these coins tells a story of an unbroken chain of powerful rulers. Diocletian (reigned 284–305) enacted a series of administrative, military, and monetary reforms that brought an end to the chaos of the third century. He divided the vast empire into western and eastern halves and assigned their administration to four men, the Tetrarchy. Galerius was one of these four men (called tetrarchs) who together ruled the Roman Empire at this time. Each half was governed by two tetrarchs, one senior and one junior in status. Portraits of these rulers are generic-looking, without individualized features, to reinforce the unity of their joint rule.
Be the first to share your thoughts.
Sign in to join the discussion.
