Reproduction Aureus of Didius Julianus - Fortuna

Obverse: Laureate, bust of Didius Julianus right. Text around IMP CAES M DID IVLIAN AVG.

Reverse: Fortuna standing facing with head to left holding rudder set on globe in right hand and cradling cornucopia across left arm. Text around P M TR P COS.

History: This aureus coin is extremely rare as Didius Julianus only reigned for 60 days. He ascended the throne after buying it from the Praetorian Guard, who had assassinated his predecessor Pertinax, in what has been called "Auction of the Empire". This incited the Roman Civil War of 193-197. Julianus was ousted and sentenced to death by his successor, Septimius Severus.

Date: Rome mint, March - April 193AD

Diameter: 1.8cm