Claudius II Gothicus, BI Antoninianus, Antioch Mint, 268-269 AD – Mercury

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Description

Repeat Title: Roman Imperial, Claudius II Gothicus, BI Antoninianus (billon, 3.39g, 18.8mm), Antioch Mint, 268-269 AD
Obv: IMP C CLAVDIVS AVG; radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind
Rev: FIDE-S AVG; Mercury standing facing, head left, holding purse and caduceus; Z in exergue
Ref:  RIC V 207 Rarity/Choice: Common, VF
Note: Claudius II Gothicus was a Roman emperor who ruled from AD 268 to 270. He is best known for his military prowess, particularly his decisive victory over the Goths at the Battle of Naissus, which earned him the cognomen “Gothicus.” His brief reign occurred during a time of great instability in the Roman Empire, known as the Crisis of the Third Century, marked by frequent changes of emperors, external threats, and internal revolts. The obverse features a radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Claudius II Gothicus facing right, seen from behind. The radiate crown symbolizes the emperor’s association with the sun god, Sol, and his divine favor. The drapery and cuirass (body armor) signify his role as a military leader and protector of the empire. The reverse shows Mercury, the Roman god of commerce, communication, and travelers, standing facing forward with his head turned to the left. He holds a purse in his right hand and a caduceus in his left. The purse symbolizes wealth and prosperity, while the caduceus, a staff entwined with two serpents, represents commerce and negotiation. The presence of Mercury on the coin could reflect the emperor’s efforts to stabilize the economy and maintain communication across the empire during a period of crisis.

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