PESCENNIUS NIGER (193-194)

Gaius Pescennius Niger Iustus

"The Year of the Five Emperors" As a Roman general, Pescennius Niger was proclaimed emperor by his troops in the eastern province of Syria. He vied for the imperial throne with Septimius Severus, another contender, leading to a fierce and prolonged civil war. The conflict between Niger and Severus reverberated across the Roman Empire, with rival legions and provinces aligning with the contenders.

Battles raged from the Balkans to the Levant, leaving a trail of instability in their wake. In the decisive confrontation at Issus in September 194 CE, Severus emerged victorious. After his defeat, Pescennius Niger met a grim fate in Antioch. He was captured, executed, and his severed head was sent to Rome as a stark reminder of the cost of failed ambition.

Obverse: Laureate head of Pescennius Niger to right, IMP CAES C PESCE NIGER IST AVG

Reverse: Victory advancing left, holding wreath and palm, VICTOR IVST AV

Mint: Antioch, 193/194 A.D.

Weight: 2,43 g

Diameter: 17mm

Provenance: Jean Elsen & ses Fils

Référence : 21.1 RIC IV 81c, RSC 78b

Collection : IMPERIUM ROMANUM 04 - Severus