Antoninianus - Maximian I struck under Carausius; PAX; Londinium
| Bronze | 4.29 g | 22 mm |
| Issuer | Britannic Empire (Roman splinter states) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Carausius (286-293) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 286-293 |
| Value | Antoninianus (3⁄50) |
| Currency | Antoninianus (286-296) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 4.29 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#214395 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 91% |
Reverse
Pax (personification of peace) standing left, holding olive branch and long sceptre
Script: Latin
Lettering: PAX AVGGG. S P
Translation: Pax Augusti (Peace of Augustus, 3 Gs to represent 3 emperors). Sacra Pecunia (sacred money)
Comment
Early in his reign, Carausius issued "PAX AVG" coins asserting his claim to be sole emperor. When that hope receded, he issued "PAX AVGGG" coins, the three Gs recognising three emperors, Carausius, Diocletian and Maximian I, hoping to be accepted as co-emperor. He wasn't.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was issued during the reign of Carausius, who was a Roman usurper who ruled over the Britannic Empire, a breakaway state from the Roman Empire, from 286 to 293 AD. Despite being a usurper, Carausius was able to maintain control over the empire for several years and issue coins in his own name, such as this Antoninianus. This coin is a testament to the political instability and fragmentation of the Roman Empire during this time period.
![Aurelianus - Carausius TVTELA [AVG]; Rotomagus front](/storage/images/Aurelianus-Carausius-TVTELA-AVG-Rotomagus_139690_1.webp)
![Aurelianus - Carausius TVTELA [AVG]; Rotomagus back](/storage/images/Aurelianus-Carausius-TVTELA-AVG-Rotomagus_139690_2.webp)