Carinus (AD 283–285) Roman Empire BI Aurelianianus NGC Ch VF

Carinus — The Last Rival Before Diocletian’s Rule

This billon aurelianianus represents Carinus, son of Emperor Carus and western Augustus during the final years before Diocletian gained sole control of the empire.

Coin Details

• Ruler: Carinus
• Reign and issue period: AD 283–285; Caesar from AD 282
• Empire/region: Roman Empire
• Denomination: Aurelianianus (radiate denomination)
• Composition: BI (billon; a silvered or low-silver copper alloy)
• NGC grade: Ch VF — Choice Very Fine
• Sheldon-scale equivalent: 30–35
• Quantity supplied: One encapsulated coin

The Sheldon-scale number is an equivalent associated with the stated ancient-coin grade; it is not a separate numerical grade assigned to the coin.

Carinus — Western Emperor in a Divided Dynasty

Carinus was the elder son of Carus and was first made Caesar, then elevated to Augustus in AD 283. While Carus and Numerian campaigned in the East, Carinus remained responsible for the western provinces and later responded to revolts and frontier threats.

After Carus and Numerian died, Carinus confronted Diocletian, whom the eastern army had proclaimed emperor. Their forces met near the Margus River in AD 285; Carinus died during or soon after the battle, leaving Diocletian in control of the Roman Empire.

What the Coin Tells Us

The aurelianianus was the reformed radiate denomination introduced under Aurelian. Usually struck in a copper-rich alloy with a silvered surface, it represents an effort to restore confidence after decades of currency debasement.

Carinus’s coinage promoted dynastic continuity at a moment when imperial survival depended heavily on military recognition. His portraits and titles preserve the claim of the house of Carus immediately before the rise of Diocletian.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one billon aurelianianus of Carinus in an NGC Ancients holder, graded Ch VF (Choice Very Fine). A specific mint, issue year, 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.