Tetricus II as Caesar (AD 273–274) Romano-Gallic Empire BI Double-Denarius (Antoninianus)
Description
This ancient Roman coin was struck for Tetricus II, who served as Caesar of the Gallic Empire under his father, Emperor Tetricus I, from AD 273 to 274. It is a billon (BI) double-denarius, more commonly known as an antoninianus, struck from a debased silver alloy during the final years of the breakaway Gallic Empire.
Tetricus II was elevated to the rank of Caesar to strengthen the legitimacy of his father's rule. In AD 274, both father and son surrendered to Emperor Aurelian at the Battle of Châlons, bringing the Gallic Empire to an end and reuniting the western provinces with the Roman Empire.
Specifications
- Ruler: Tetricus II (as Caesar)
- Dates of Issue: AD 273–274
- Empire: Romano-Gallic Empire
- Denomination: Double-Denarius (Antoninianus)
- Composition: Billon (BI)
- Date Struck: AD 273–274
- Historical Period: Crisis of the Third Century ("Roman Age of Chaos")
Historical Significance
Coins of Tetricus II commemorate the final chapter of the Gallic Empire, a breakaway Roman state that controlled Gaul and Britain during the Crisis of the Third Century. His brief tenure as Caesar and the collapse of the Gallic Empire make these coins historically significant and popular among collectors specializing in Roman imperial succession and the "Roman Age of Chaos."
Pedigree
Roman Age of Chaos Collection.
Note
Ancient coins were individually hand-struck, making every specimen unique. Variations in strike quality, centering, legends, portrait style, silver content, and natural patina are expected and contribute to the individuality of each coin.
