CLAUDIUS II GOTHICUS
AD 268-270
AE Antoninianus. 3.63g, 20.9mm
MINTED: Mediolanum mint, spring - circa end Aug AD 270
REF: New RIC V/1 Online temp #74 (this coin cited)
OBVERSE: IMP CLAVDIVS P F AVG, radiate and cuirassed bust right.
REVERSE: DIANA LVCIF, Diana standing right, holding long-handled lighted torch in both hands; P in exergue.
 
Provenance:
Ex Finn Johannessen Collection (purchased from Vladimir Chichkov, 7 Jul 2006)
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.
 
Notes:
Sharp, detailed portrait. Reddish brown patina. Well-centered. Flan crack.  
 
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.