Antoninianus 287-293 AD of Carausius (287-293 CE), F-O London, Romano-British Empire (RIC 98)

IMP CARAVSIVS PF AVG, radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right / PAX AVG, Pax standing left, holding olive branch and scepter, ML in exergue. 19mm, 3.98 grams. London mint. RIC 98.

Crude, semi-official issues, uncleaned. Ex. Dr. Malcolm Lyne Collection, with his old collection ticket.

Carausius was a Roman military commander of humble origin who declared himself emperor in 286 CE, establishing a breakaway regime in Britain and parts of northern Gaul. Originally appointed to command the Roman fleet against Saxon and Frankish pirates, he was accused of corruption and preemptively seized power rather than face execution. He ruled as a usurper but portrayed himself as a legitimate Roman emperor, issuing coins with high craftsmanship and symbols of Roman tradition. His reign lasted about seven years, marked by political cunning and military strength, but in 293 CE, he was assassinated by his finance minister Allectus, who took power in his place. Despite his usurpation, Carausius is remembered as a shrewd and capable leader who capitalized on Rome's instability.

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