Numerian (AD 283–284) Roman Empire BI Aurelianianus NGC F

Numerian — A Young Emperor Lost on the Persian Return

This billon aurelianianus represents Numerian, son of Carus and eastern co-emperor with his brother Carinus.

Coin Details

• Ruler: Numerian
• Reign and issue period: AD 283–284
• Empire/region: Roman Empire
• Denomination: Aurelianianus (radiate denomination)
• Metal: BI (billon; silver-alloy coinage)
• NGC grade: F — Fine
• Sheldon scale equivalent: 12
• Quantity supplied: One encapsulated coin

Numerian — Campaign, Retreat and a Mysterious Death

Numerian accompanied his father Carus on the Persian campaign and became Augustus after Carus died. The army then began withdrawing west under the influence of the praetorian prefect Aper.

Numerian died during the return journey, and his concealed body was discovered in the imperial litter. Diocletian was proclaimed emperor and accused Aper of the murder.

What This Coin Tells Us

The aurelianianus was the reformed radiate denomination introduced by Aurelian and commonly carried a thin silvered surface.

Numerian’s brief issues are important evidence for an emperor whose reign and death are only imperfectly described by literary sources.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one billon aurelianianus of Numerian in an NGC Ancients holder with the stated grade. A specific mint, reverse design, inscription, weight or diameter is not promised unless expressly stated above.

Stock-photo notice: The photographs are representative of the product offering. The coin supplied may differ from the pictured example in portrait style, reverse design, inscriptions, centering, toning, surface appearance and other individual characteristics while remaining within the stated coin type and any expressly stated grade.