
Claudius II Gothicus Antoninianus Æ RIC # 201 A.D. 268 - 270 CONSER AVG
Lot 538 · Consigned by Tacitus
Closed
Description
RIC V Claudius Gothicus # 201
Date: A.D. 268 – 270
Denomination: Antoninianus
Mint: Antioch
Obverse: IMP C CLAVDIVS AVG: Bust of Claudius Gothicus, radiate, draped, right
Reverse: CONSER AVG: Serapis, wearing polos, draped, standing left, raising right hand & holding sceptre in left hand.
Elevate your collection with this authentic Antoninianus of Claudius II “Gothicus,” struck at Antioch between AD 268–270 (RIC V 201). This historic bronze coin honors the emperor famed for his victory over the Goths and features:
Obverse: Radiate, draped bust of IMP C CLAVDIVS AVG facing right, legend fully legible.
Reverse: Serapis in polos and flowing himation, raising his right hand in blessing and gripping a sceptre in his left, under CONSER AVG.
Every element carries the weight of a turbulent third-century empire undergoing near-constant military campaigns. The choice of Serapis as the reverse deity symbolizes stability and divine guardianship—an intentional message to reinforce Claudius’s role as preserver of Rome.
This coin appeals to both historical numismatists and art-driven collectors:
Artistic appeal: Balanced flan, pleasing dark patina, and a classical portrait that steps off the surface.
Historical significance: Struck during the Gallic and Palmyrene secessions, it captures Rome’s struggle for unity.
Scarcity: Antioch issues of RIC V 201 are less common than Roman-mint counterparts, making this a standout acquisition.
Add a tangible piece of Claudius’s legacy to your display cabinet or binder spread. Whether you’re illustrating Roman imperial resilience or curating a Serapis-focused series, this antoninianus is ready to anchor your narrative.
Own a coin that speaks of victory, divine protection, and the fragile strength of an empire in crisis.
Grade
This example presents moderate, even wear across the high points—particularly on Claudius’s radiate crown and Serapis’s polos—while retaining sharp legend details and clear drapery folds. The strike is well centered, and all key motifs remain distinct. Overall, I would assign it a Very Fine (VF) grade.
Estimated Market Value
Very Fine (VF): $60–$80
Extra Fine (EF, with full hair curls and deeper relief): around $100