IMP CARAVSIVS P AVG, radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right / LEG IIII FLAV, centaur walking left, raising hand and holding rudder, C below. 23mm, 2.70 grams. Legionary issue, mint "C". Cf. RIC V 272-3 (for similar issues).

Ex. Dr. Malcolm Lyne Collection.

Legio IV Flavia Felix was a Roman legion founded by Emperor Vespasian in 70 CE to replace the disbanded Legio IV Macedonica. Stationed primarily in Moesia Superior (modern Serbia), it became a key force defending the Danube frontier. The legion played a major role in Emperor Trajan’s Dacian Wars (101–106 CE), contributing to the conquest of Dacia. Known for its emblem of a lion, Legio IV Flavia Felix remained active through the 2nd and 3rd centuries, participating in various campaigns and protecting Rome’s northeastern borders well into the later Roman Empire.

Carausius was a Roman military commander of humble origin who declared himself emperor in 286 CE, establishing a breakaway regime in Britain and parts of northern Gaul. Originally appointed to command the Roman fleet against Saxon and Frankish pirates, he was accused of corruption and preemptively seized power rather than face execution. He ruled as a usurper but portrayed himself as a legitimate Roman emperor, issuing coins with high craftsmanship and symbols of Roman tradition. His reign lasted about seven years, marked by political cunning and military strength, but in 293 CE, he was assassinated by his finance minister Allectus, who took power in his place. Despite his usurpation, Carausius is remembered as a shrewd and capable leader who capitalized on Rome's instability.