CLAUDIUS II GOTHICUS
AD 268-270
AE Antoninianus. 3.64g, 21.3mm
MINTED: Rome mint, circa Sep AD 268 - end AD 269
REF: New RIC V/1 Online temp #230 (this coin cited)
OBVERSE: IMP C CLAVDIVS AVG, radiate and cuirassed bust right.
REVERSE: GENIVS EXERCI, Genius standing left, holding patera and cornucopiae.
 
Provenance:
Ex Finn Johannessen Collection (purchased from Silenos Coins, 25 Oct 2001)
Finn Johannessen was a specialist collector who assembled probably the most complete private collection of Claudius II coinage. His collection included numerous rarities and important additions to the new online version of Roman Imperial Coinage (RIC) V Part I.

Grade/Notes:
Very Fine. Dark brown patina.
 
Historical Notes:
Of low birth, Claudius II rose through the ranks of the army and served as Commander of the Elite Cavalry under Emperor Gallienus. His own brief reign was notable for the success he had in restoring some prestige to the reputation of Empire's legions. At the Battle of Naissus, he crushed a huge army of invading Goths, earning himself the title Gothicus (Conqueror of the Goths). He succumbed to the plague while preparing to go to war against the Vandals.