Rare Allectus antoninianus.
Roman Imperial
Allectus (293-296), Antoninianus
Obverse: radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right
IMP C ALLECTVS P F AVG
Reverse: illegible
Weight 3.9 g
Allectus, one of the usurpers during the reigns of Diocletian and Maximian. His family, country and time of birth remain unknown. Following the fortunes of Carausius, he became his Praetorian Prefect, and took part in the administration of his government in Britain. Although skilled in war, and held in repute by the soldiers, yet whatever good qualities he possessed were darkened by his avarice, and sullied by his ambition. Many were the acts of injustice which he is said to have committed, under the influence of these two-fold vices ; and fearing the resentment of Carausius, he came to the base and treacherous resolution of assassinating his benefactor and companion in arms. Having perpetrated his foul crime, he employed his ill-gotten wealth in corrupting the legionaries as well as the sea forces. They declared him Imperator and Augustus, and he became the successor of Carausius, A.D. 293.
