Clodius Albinus Roman Silver Denarius (AD 195–197) – NGC Certified

Own a certified silver denarius of Clodius Albinus, one of Rome’s most prominent usurpers during the chaotic “Year of the Five Emperors” (193 AD), authenticated and slabbed by NGC. This coin is a striking artifact from a time when military power and political ambition dictated the fate of emperors.

Clodius Albinus was a seasoned Roman general and governor of Britain when Emperor Pertinax was assassinated in 193 AD. With the empire in disarray, Albinus emerged as one of several claimants to the throne. Initially, he allied with Septimius Severus, accepting the title of Caesar (junior emperor) and gaining the support of the Roman Senate in the process. This alliance was a strategic move by Severus to secure the western provinces while he dealt with rivals in the East.

However, once Severus consolidated his power, he no longer had use for Albinus. The alliance collapsed, and civil war followed. In 197 AD, Severus defeated Albinus at the Battle of Lugdunum (modern Lyon, France), one of the largest battles ever fought between Roman forces. Albinus was killed, and his supporters were purged in a brutal aftermath.

Denarii of Clodius Albinus often feature his stern, bearded portrait on the obverse, with reverses reflecting traditional Roman virtues or imperial aspirations — a fleeting glimpse of a man who came within reach of absolute power.

Certified by NGC, this denarius offers collectors a rare coin struck during one of Rome’s most volatile power struggles.