Marcus Aurelius Mausaeus Carausius. Usurper in Britain (286/7-293). Was in command of the fleet in northrn Gaul but, taking advantage of his position, he turned to indiscriminate plunder and fell into disfavor. Fled to Britain and proclaimed himself emperor. He was defeated by the fleet of Maximian and was slain by his chief minister Allectus. He was probably 48 years old at his death.
His realm included Britain and perhaps the area around Bononia (Boulogne). These coins indicate at least part of the Second and Third Parthian Legions, originally founded by Septimius Severus in 197 AD, had found their way to Britain in the later third century where they supported Carausius' usurpation. Alternatively, they may be among the Gallic Legions that Carausius hoped to win over to his side. The Legionary issues of Carausius are the last in the Roman series to mention specific legions.
See the biography of Carausius at De Imperatoribus Romanis, an online encyclopedia of Roman emperors.
Click on coin catalog links to view images:
| Catalog | Denom | Inscription | Reverse Type |
|---|---|---|---|
Carausius A.D. 286/7-293 |
|||
| RIC5 60 | anton | / LEG PARTH | female centaur |
| RIC5 61, 63, 64 RIC5 62 |
anton | IMP CARAVSIVS PF AVG / LEG II PARTH | male centaur walking right, ML below |
| RIC5 273 error coin |
anton | IMP CARAUSIUS P F AVG / LEG IIII FLAVIA | centaur walking left (but centaur is badge of LEGIO II PARTHICA) |
| RIC5 65 | anton | / LEG II PARTH (or PARTHICA) | boar |
| RIC5 66, 67 ANS 1954.203.139 |
anton | IMP CARAVSIVS P AVG / LEG III PARTH | bull standing, ML below |
The images are used by permission of their copyright owners. See the Coins of Rome about Parthia index page for a listing of these generous individuals, dealers and institutions.
This page last updated 23 Feb 2021
|
|
|
