A blacksmith by trade, Marius worked his way up through the ranks until he was an officer in the Gallic Empire army under Postumus. Upon Postumus' death, Marius seized power but his reign was very short, perhaps only two or three days. He was murdered by his own officers, possibly with a sword of his own manufacture.
Marius. Romano-Gallic Emperor, 269 AD. AE Antoninianus. Colonia Agrippinensis mint. IMP C M AVR MARIV[S AVG], radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Marius right / VICTO-R-IA AVG, Victory running right, holding wreath and palm. 19mm, 2.73g. RIC 18; AGK 6a; Cunetio 2507. 70-80% silvering remaining, irregular flan. Extremely Fine.
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