Nomos 38

Postumus, Romano-Gallic Emperor, 260-269. Aureus (Gold, 22 mm, 6.41 g, 6 h), Treveri, issue 4, mid 262 - mid 263. IMP C POSTVMVS PF AVG Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Postumus to right. Rev. MINER FAVTR Minerva Fautrix (the Helper) advancing to left, holding palm branch in right hand and spear and shield in left. Calicó 3744. Cohen 194. Elmer 309. RIC V.4, 198/4 (this coin). RIC 29. Schulte 41A var. (Av21/Rv-, unrecorded reverse die). Probably the finest known example, beautifully centered. Virtually as struck.

From an American collection, ex Heritage 3066, 17 August 2018, 30123, and Elsen 125, 13 June 2015, 408.

Postumus epitomises the 3rd-century "soldier-emperor." The origins of his reign trace back to a successful military operation where his troops intercepted a plundering horde of Franks attempting to retreat from Roman territory. What should have been a standard victory for the Rhine legions devolved into a crisis when Saloninus—the Caesar responsible for the Rhineland—demanded the confiscated spoils be surrendered to the state treasury. In defiance, the soldiers revolted, acclaiming Postumus as their Imperator. It is remarkable that from such a volatile beginning, a relatively stable political entity emerged within the Roman Empire: the Gallic Empire (260–274). This "breakaway" state established its own distinct administration and a sophisticated coinage. As evidenced by this specific piece, the Gallic mints were capable of exceptional artistry and technical proficiency, often surpassing the quality of contemporary Roman imperial issues!

This artistic excellence was frequently employed to reinforce the regime's legitimacy through complex iconography. For instance, the reverse of Minerva Fautrix (‘Minerva the Helper’) is unique to the coinage of Postumus. This specific representation of the goddess might have been selected for her close relationship with Hercules, whom Postumus presented as his personal protector. Interestingly enough, on a contemporary issue of antoniniani (RIC V.4, 209-10), Hercules Pacifero (‘the Peace-Bringer’) is depicted holding a branch very similar to the one Minerva holds on this exceptional aureus.