Leu Numismatik AG
Auction 3 27 Oct 2018
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Tacitus, 275-276. Antoninianus (Bronze, 22 mm, 4.03 g, 1 h), Ticinum, early-mid 276. IMP C M CL TACITVS AVG C III Radiate bust of Tacitus to left, wearing consular robes and holding eagle-tipped scepter. Rev. MARTI PACIF / S Mars advancing left, holding olive branch in his right hand and shield with his left. Cohen -. RIC -. RIC online 3407 (three specimens, all from this obverse die). Extremely rare, the fourth known example. Slightly smoothed, otherwise, good very fine.
The fact that this obverse die was also used on the unique consular binio with Salus reverse in Verona shows that these coins were part of a broader issue commemorating the emperor's accession to his third consulship on 1st January 276. Born in circa 200, Tacitus was already an old man when he succeeded to power, and he had been consul twice before, once possibly under Valerian I, and a second time under Aurelian in 273.
The fact that this obverse die was also used on the unique consular binio with Salus reverse in Verona shows that these coins were part of a broader issue commemorating the emperor's accession to his third consulship on 1st January 276. Born in circa 200, Tacitus was already an old man when he succeeded to power, and he had been consul twice before, once possibly under Valerian I, and a second time under Aurelian in 273.