CLAUDIUS II GOTHICUS
AD 268-270
AE Antoninianus. 3.0g, 19.8mm
MINTED: Mediolanum (Milan) mint, late AD 268
REF: RIC 168
OBVERSE: IMP CLAVDIVS P F AVG, radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right.
REVERSE: SPES PVBLICA, Spes standing facing, head left, lifting dress with left hand and holding flower in right hand; P in exergue.
 
Notes:
Dark earthy green patina, with some minor edge splits.  
The coins of Claudius II are sometimes said to represent the nadir of Roman Imperial coinage.  Often, the die engravers often produced portraits and reverses of poor style, and at the mint, the coins were produced in haste and with little concern for quality control.   
 
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.