Colchester - VIRTVS AVG - Allectus

Allectus (293-296)

IMP C ALLECTVS PF AVG  //  VIRTVS AVG  -- QC

Mint: Colchester

Date: AD 296

Measurements: 2.99 g.

RIC 130

Because of their relatively small diameter and light weight, these coins are sometimes wrongly refered to as 'Quinari'. However, in his latest work on British usurpers, P. Casey provides a satisfactory solution. Hence, at the end of his reign, Allectus was faced with a serious financial and monetary crisis, was likely caused him to reduce the weight of his Antoniniani. Hence, we would then simply be dealing with reduced Antoniniani, dating to the end of Allectus' reign.

The reverse typology showing a ship is interesting and was newly introduced at the time. It envokes the importance of maritime trade and the maritime defence of Britain's coasts against raiding Saxons.

Carausius had reigned since 286 when he was assassinated in 293 at the instigation of Allectus. He is believed to have been murdered in late spring or early summer. Allectus' reign lasted just under three years. Constantius prepared a great expedition at the end of 295 to reconquer England. The invading army landed in early 296 and Allectus was killed in a battle near London which opened its gates. The scene of Constantius Chlorus' arrival in London is immortalised on a magnificent ten aurei medallion from the Trier workshop.

Collection : Carausius & Allectus