Regalianus and Dryantilla: the Carnuntine imperial couple
In 260, a catastrophe befell the Roman Empire: Emperor Valerianus I fell captive to the Great King of the Sasanians Shapur I. All over the empire, numerous dignitaries or generals now declared themselves emperor - they were called 'thirty tyrants'.
In Carnuntum it was Regalianus, the commander (dux) of the Pannonian legions, who renounced Rome. Although there was no mint in the garrison, he had coins struck for himself and his wife Dryantilla from specially manufactured dies, all of which were apparently overstruck on older denarii, which were also much more valuable than contemporary money due to their higher silver content. This usurpation seems to have come to an end very soon, as coins of Regalianus and Dryantilla are extremely rare.
It was therefore a unique opportunity for the Kunsthistorisches Museum to acquire 22 coins of the Carnuntine imperial couple from the collection of Dr. Ernst Ploil, which can now be viewed publicly via the Interactive Catalogue.
As these pieces are the only Roman coins minted in Austria, they are an essential part of Austria's cultural heritage.
We are delighted to make these precious objects permanently accessible to everyone and would like to thank all our supporters!
Image: Dryantilla, 260 AD, antoninianus, MK RÖ 95443
