CLAUDIUS II GOTHICUS
AD 268-270
AE Antoninianus. 3.0g, 23.7mm
MINTED: Smyrna mint, circa end AD 268 - early 269
REF: New RIC V/1 Online temp #859 (this coin recorded)
OBVERSE: IMP C M AVR CLAVDIVS AVG, radiate and cuirassed bust right.
REVERSE: SALVS AVG, Salus standing right, feeding snake held in right hand from patera held in left hand; SPQR in exergue.
 
Notes:
Very Rare, this coin one of only five examples listed and pictured in the New RIC V/1 online database. Struck on a broad irregular flan.  Dark patchy and textured surfaces.
 
Provenance:
Ex Finn Johannessen Collection (purchased from Alan Gingles, 21 Mar 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.
 
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.