The Roman Empire
Magnia Urbica, wife of Carinus. Aureus 280-284, AV 4.48 g. MAGNIA VRBICA AVG Diademed and draped bust r. Rev. VENERI VICTRICI Venus standing r., holding apple and raising robe over shoulder. C 8. RIC Carus 340. Calicó 4409.
Very rare and in exceptional condition for the issue, among the finest specimens
known. An exquisite portrait of fine style, virtually as struck and almost Fdc
Ex Tkalec sale 28 February 2007, Bolla, 89.
Known principally from her coinage, Magna Urbica is not mentioned by the ancient authors. She certainly was the wife of Carinus, whom she probably married in 283, as both of their busts appear on quinarii and gold medallion. However, considering she was one of nine wives the Historia Augusta reports Carinus to have had, we cannot be certain she is the natural mother of Carinus' son Nigrinianus.