Gratian Roman AE (AD 367–383) – NGC Certified

Own a certified Roman bronze AE coin of Emperor Gratian (AD 367–383), authenticated and slabbed by NGC. This coin captures the image of one of Rome’s last capable Western rulers before the empire's final descent into fragmentation.

Gratian, the son of Valentinian I and nephew of Valens, was elevated to the imperial purple at a young age. In 375 AD, following the death of his father, Gratian became ruler of the Western Roman Empire while still a teenager. Despite his youth, the early years of his reign were marked by vigorous leadership and military competence, qualities that earned him significant respect among his contemporaries.

Gratian famously fought alongside his uncle at key moments, and after Valens perished at the disastrous Battle of Adrianople (378 AD), Gratian’s political position became even more pivotal. Recognizing the need for experienced leadership, he appointed Theodosius I to govern the East, helping to stabilize the empire temporarily.

His coinage reflects a period of continued Christianization and military emphasis, with reverses often depicting Victory figures, globe-holding emperors, or Christian symbols like the Chi-Rho.

Unfortunately, Gratian's reign ended in turmoil when he lost favor with segments of the Roman army and aristocracy. In 383, he was overthrown and assassinated during a revolt led by the usurper Magnus Maximus.

Certified by NGC, this AE coin offers collectors a piece of late Roman history — a reminder of the empire’s final flashes of strength before its inevitable decline.