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Auction: 336 - The Numismatic Collector's Series Sale
Lot: 172

Roman Imperial. Western Empire. Majorian (457-461). AE, 14mm. Mediolanum (Milan). 2.12 gms. DN IVL MAIORIANVS PF AV, pearl-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right, rev. Victory advancing left, holding wreath and palm frond, MD in ex. RIC 2645, LRBC 582. Rare. With Avitus' deposition in October 456, Majorian and Master of Soldiers Ricimer, the king-maker, became defacto rulers in the West. On April 1, 457, Majorian was hailed Emperor of the West and officially installed December 28. After dealing with the Visigoths and Burgundians in Gaul, Majorian turned to face the Vandals. In 460, he had assembled a fleet of about 300 warships in Spain; but through treachery the entire fleet was captured by the Vandals and the Romans had to agree to humiliating peace terms. Majorian returned to Rome to find his popularity destroyed and Ricimer an enemy. He abdicated and was executed (or allowed to take his own life) on August 7, 461. Olive-green with burgundy earthen hues. Very Fine.

Estimate
$400 to $600