ROMAN EMPIRE. Magnentius.
Gold Solidus, AD 353. Treveri.
Obv: D N MAGNENTIVS AVG, bare headed, draped and cuirassed bust right. Rev: VICT CAES LIB ROM ORB, Victory standing right, facing Libertas, draped and standing left, holding spear, both supporting trophy on shaft; TR in exergue.
In secure plastic holder, graded NGC MS Strike: 5/5 Surface 2/5; slight bend, marks, certification number 6158066-011.Magnentius, who declared himself emperor in AD 350 after overthrowing Constans, faced a pivotal challenge during the Battle of Mursa Major in 351. This crucial confrontation, fought near the town of Mursa (modern Osijek, Croatia), was one of the largest and bloodiest engagements of the 4th-century Roman civil wars. Magnentius's forces clashed with those of Emperor Constantius II in a fierce battle marked by high casualties on both sides. Despite a determined defence, Constantius II emerged victorious, a result that severely weakened Magnentius’s military strength and eroded his political position. By 353, after struggling to recover from the loss and facing mounting opposition, Magnentius was cornered and ultimately took his own life.
Ex Nomos AG, obolos 5 (26/6/2016), lot 870 (hammer: 15,000 CHF).
Reference: RIC VIII-296; Depeyrot-13/2; Bastien-76 (same dies); Hess 1935, lot 4288 (same dies).
Rarity: Exceedingly Rare; just the 3rd known example.
Weight: 3.84 g.
Estimate: 6000 GBP