CLAUDIUS II GOTHICUS
AD 268-270
AE Antoninianus. 3.39g, 22.8mm
MINTED: Smyrna mint, circa end AD 268 - early AD 269
REF: New RIC V/1 Online temp #809 (this coin cited)
OBVERSE: IMP C M AVR CLAVDIVS AVG, radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from rear.
REVERSE: FORTVNA AVG, Fortuna standing left, holding patera over small altar in right hand and cornucopiae in left hand; SPQR in exergue.
 
Notes:
Rare. Struck on a broad flan.  Rough surfaces, but with areas of original silvering intact and clear SPQR mint signature.  
 
Provenance:
Ex Finn Johannessen Collection, ex CNG E-197 (1 Jan 2008), lot 283 (part of)
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.
 
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.