The Tale of Claudius Gothicus and the Radiant Peace Coin
Step back into the late 3rd century AD, when the Roman Empire was in a state of flux and recovery. The streets of Rome and other cities across the empire are bustling with life, as merchants, soldiers, and citizens conduct their daily business. Amidst this scene, this silver Antoninianus passes from hand to hand—the coin of Emperor Claudius Gothicus, symbolizing peace and stability.
Meet Claudius Gothicus:
Imagine Claudius Gothicus, a military leader turned emperor, who earned his title through significant victories against the Gothic tribes. His reign, though brief from AD 268 to 270, was marked by his efforts to stabilize the empire and bring peace. His full title, "Imperator Caesar Claudius Augustus," encircles his radiate bust on the obverse of the coin, a testament to his authority and achievements.
Your Coin's Journey:
Hold the coin in your hand—20 millimeters of silver-washed bronze, weighing 3.8 grams, yet rich with the history of an empire. On the obverse, the legend "IMP CLAVDIVS AVG" frames Claudius’s radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust, reinforcing his image as a protector and restorer of the Roman state.
Flip the coin to reveal its reverse, where the legend "VICTORIA AVG / S" is inscribed. Victory advancing right, holding a wreath and palm frond. The scene depicted is one of tranquility and order. This imagery underscores the emperor’s role in victory and prosperity within the empire.
What Your Coin Bought:
Envision your coin’s journey through the bustling marketplaces of the Roman Empire. It pays for a variety of goods—fresh bread from a local baker, fruits, and vegetables from the market, or perhaps a simple garment from a skilled weaver. Each transaction is a small part of the empire's vast economy, with the coin reinforcing the connection between the people and their emperor.
A Time of Recovery:
Claudius Gothicus’s reign came during the Crisis of the Third Century, a period marked by political instability, economic challenges, and constant military threats. Despite the chaos, his leadership and military victories brought a semblance of stability and order.
Claudius Gothicus (268-270 CE)
Opening Sale
Coin Data Sheet: Claudius II Gothicus Silvered Bronze Antoninianus (RIC 171)
General Information:
Authority: Claudius II Gothicus
Reign: 268–270 CE
State: Roman Empire
Mint: Rome, Italy (Latium)
RIC Reference: 171
Denomination: Silvered Bronze Antoninianus
Date Range: 268–270 CE
Physical Specifications:
Condition: gVF+ (Good Very Fine Plus; silver intact)
Material: Silvered Bronze (commonly referred to as “silver billion”)
Manufacture: Struck
Approximate Weight: Typically around 3–4 grams (varies slightly among specimens)
Diameter: Approximately 22 mm (typical for Antoniniani)
Obverse (Front) Details:
Legend: "IMP CLAVDIVS PF AVG"
(Imperator Caesar Claudius Augustus)Design:
Portrait of Claudius II Gothicus, rendered with a radiate crown.
The bust is shown either draped or cuirassed, facing right.
Symbolism:
The radiate crown signifies divine favor and underscores the emperor's legitimacy and military prowess.
His portrait serves as a propagandistic assertion of authority during a period of military and political crisis.
Reverse (Back) Details:
Legend: "VICTORIA AVG / S"
(Victory for Augustus)Design:
Depicts Victory advancing to the right, holding a wreath in one hand and a palm frond in the other.
Victory, as a personification, is emblematic of triumphant success in battle and the restoration of order.
Symbolism:
The wreath represents honor and military triumph.
The palm frond is a symbol of victory and peace, reinforcing the notion that the emperor’s successes lead to prosperity and stability.