A rare denarius of Pescennius Niger, one of the contenders for the imperial throne during the turbulent Year of the Five Emperors, struck at Antioch in AD 193–194.
Following the assassination of Pertinax and the accession of Didius Julianus, Pescennius Niger, then governor of Syria, was proclaimed emperor by the eastern legions. He enjoyed considerable support throughout the Asian provinces and among the population of Rome. He was soon challenged, however, by Septimius Severus. Following a series of defeats culminating in the Battle of Issus, Niger attempted to flee eastwards but was captured and killed in AD 194.
The reverse depicts Spes, the Roman personification of hope, advancing left, holding a flower and raising the hem of her robe. The legend BONAE SPEI, “To Good Hope”, expressed confidence in Niger’s victory in the civil war and in a prosperous future under his rule. In view of his eventual defeat, the type carries a particularly poignant historical meaning.
The coinage of Pescennius Niger is distinguished by its considerable variety of inscriptions, which frequently contain unusual abbreviations and errors characteristic of the hurried production of the eastern mints during the civil war. The BONAE SPEI type is a rare issue known with several variants of the obverse legend.
An example with a discernible portrait and an identifiable representation of Spes. Irregular flan, uneven surfaces and traces of extensive circulation.
Offered with a certificate of authenticity issued by David R. Sear, the distinguished British numismatist and author of fundamental reference works on ancient coinage.
A rare and historically significant denarius of one of the principal contenders for the imperial throne in AD 193, featuring a symbolic representation of hope for victory in the civil war. The accompanying certificate of authenticity issued by David R. Sear provides an additional advantage.
Roman Imperial
Pescennius Niger (193-194), Denarius 193-194, mint of Antioch
Obverse: head of the emperor facing right
IMP CAES C PESCE NIGERIVS A
Reverse: Spes standing to the left, holding flower and lifting her robe
BONAE SPEI
Diameter 20 mm, weight 2.77 g
