Description
Aurelian: The Father of Christmas (Slab Box)
Roman Emperor Aurelian — AD 270–275
There is so much more to know about the Christmas story.
Introducing Emperor Aurelian (AD 270–275)—the ruler who restored strength and stability to Rome during one of its darkest eras, the Age of Chaos. Known for his military victories over the Goths, Vandals, and Palmyrenes, Aurelian earned the title Restitutor Orbis (“Restorer of the World”).
Aurelian also established December 25th as the date of the Natale Solis Invicti—the Festival of the Unconquered Sun. Early Christians later adopted this same date to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. In this way, the pagan emperor inadvertently added a symbolic title to his legacy: “The Father of Christmas.”
Aurelian’s decree honoring the rebirth of the Sun became a bridge between ancient Roman tradition and emerging Christian faith. The symbolism of light overcoming darkness—echoed in the “Sun of Righteousness” (Malachi 4:2)—and the Sun’s triumph following the winter solstice beautifully aligned with the message of Christ’s birth as the Light of the World.
Each coin in this exclusive boxed set is a genuine ancient Roman bronze struck during Aurelian’s reign. Every coin is securely encapsulated in a protective display slab and includes a Certificate of Authenticity.
The obverse features the portrait of Emperor Aurelian, while the reverse designs vary, depicting mythological and military motifs symbolizing victory and renewal.
