CLAUDIUS II GOTHICUS AD 268-270 AE Antoninianus. 3.2g, 20mm MINTED: Milan mint, AD 268-270 REF: RIC 171 OBVERSE: IMP CLAVDIVS P F AVG, radiate draped and cuirassed bust right, from behind. REVERSE: VICTORIA AVG, Victory running right, wreath extended in right, palm frond over shoulder in left; S in exergue. Grade/Notes:

Fine.  Very rough surfaces but a fairly nice colour.  

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.