CLODIUS ALBINUS.(Caesar, 193-195). Denarius. Rome.

Obv : D CL SEPT ALBIN CAES.
Bare head right.

Rev : ROMAE AETERNAE.
Roma seated left on shield, holding palladium and spear.
RIC 11a.
EX BIGA.

Condition : The coin appears to be in fair condition, showing signs of wear but with the main details still discernible. The surface has developed a light patina, which gives it a silvery-gray hue. This patina is uniform, indicating age and authenticity, enhancing the coin's historical character. The inscriptions and design elements are somewhat softened due to circulation, but the overall condition is stable and appealing for a piece of its age.Very fine.

Material : Silver.
Axis : 12h

Weight : 3.55 gr
Diameter : 17 mm

Clodius Albinus was a Roman general and political figure who played a significant role during the tumultuous Year of the Five Emperors in 193 CE. Born around 150 CE in Hadrumetum (modern-day Sousse, Tunisia), Albinus came from an influential family and rose to prominence through his military career, eventually becoming one of the most powerful men in the Roman Empire.

Albinus first gained recognition as a capable commander during his service under the emperors Marcus Aurelius and Commodus. He was appointed governor of several important provinces, including Britain, where he successfully maintained order and managed the province's defenses. His military experience and leadership made him a prominent figure within the Roman legions, which later played a crucial role in his bid for power.

In 193 CE, following the assassination of Emperor Pertinax, Rome was thrown into chaos as multiple claimants vied for the imperial throne. Albinus was initially a contender for the position, but he was persuaded to align with Septimius Severus, another powerful general who had declared himself emperor. Severus, needing support to consolidate his power, recognized Albinus as Caesar (junior co-emperor) and effectively made him his second-in-command, promising Albinus control of the western provinces, including Britain and Gaul.

For a time, this arrangement worked, and Albinus remained loyal to Severus. However, their alliance began to unravel as Severus consolidated his position and started to marginalize Albinus. In 195 CE, Severus declared his own son, Caracalla, as Caesar, signaling his intention to elevate his family over Albinus. Feeling betrayed, Albinus broke with Severus and declared himself emperor, leading to a civil war.

In 196 CE, Albinus marched his forces from Britain into Gaul, where he established himself as a rival emperor. However, in February 197 CE, the decisive Battle of Lugdunum (modern Lyon) took place between the forces of Albinus and Severus. Despite a fierce and close-fought battle, Albinus was defeated. After the battle, he attempted to escape but was eventually captured and executed by Severus’ forces. His death marked the end of his bid for power and secured Severus’ position as sole emperor of Rome.

Clodius Albinus is remembered as a key figure in the power struggles that characterized the late 2nd century CE. Although he came close to claiming the throne, his defeat at Lugdunum and subsequent death solidified Septimius Severus' control over the Roman Empire and marked the final chapter of the civil war that followed Pertinax’s assassination. Albinus' legacy is tied to his ambition, military skill, and his role in one of the most unstable periods in Roman imperial history.