ROMAN. Victorinus. A.D. 270-271. Billon Antoninianus (5.22g). Treveri mint. IMP C VICTORINVS P F AVG, radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right / INVICTVS, Sol walking left, raising hand and holding whip; star in left field. RIC V.2 114 (Colonia Agrippinensis); Mairat, 2014 (unpublished PhD thesis), 595. Extremely Fine for this very rare bust depiction and undoubtedly one of the finest known examples. Victorinus was a Roman emperor who ruled during the tumultuous period of the Gallic Empire (A.D. 268-271). He was a military leader who rose to power amid the empire's fracturing, declaring himself emperor in A.D. 269. His reign, though brief, was marked by efforts to stabilise the western provinces of the empire, especially through military campaigns. Victorinus is also known for his coinage, which played a significant role in maintaining the economy of the Gallic Empire. His coins, often featuring his likeness and various deities, are valued by collectors for their historical significance and rarity. They reflect the challenging times of his reign, showcasing the emperor's attempts to project authority and maintain unity in a divided empire. From the inventory of I.S. Wright; acquired from Coincraft, London, 1981. (P)

Estimate: AUD 750