Carausius. Romano-British Emperor, AD 286-293. Antoninianus (17.5mm, 2.73 g, 12h). ‘RSR’ mint(?). Struck circa AD 286/7. Good Fine.

Electronic Auction 618
Lot: 859. Estimated: $ 400

Roman Imperial, Silver

Sold For $ 800. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

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Carausius. Romano-British Emperor, AD 286-293. Antoninianus (17.5mm, 2.73 g, 12h). ‘RSR’ mint(?). Struck circa AD 286/7. Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right / Lighted altar inscribed [...]/ CIS in two lines. RIC V.5 (621) (this coin cited and illustrated). Dark green patina, some roughness. Good Fine. Unique. The only example cited in RIC V.5.

From the Chris Bailey Collection.

A somewhat difficult coin to interpret. This coin has had a number of suggested readings offered, some more likely than others. Leaving the obverse legend (which is largely off flan) aside, more attention has been giving to the two-line legend on the altar. It is this cataloger’s perspective that the second line reads ‘CIS.’ It is possible that the first line could read PAX; it is, however, unclear. It is probably best to wait for an additional specimen of this reverse in order to untangle its definite reading and meaning.

Closing Date and Time: 7 October 2026 at 14:46:00 ET.

All winning bids are subject to a 20% buyer’s fee.