Western Roman Empire, Gratian AD 367-383

Obverse: Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust of Gratian, facing right. Legend: DN GRATIANVS PF AVG.

Reverse: Gratian standing, head left, holding Victory on a globe, raising kneeling female on left.

• NGC Ancients Certificate: 6828853-015
• Composition: Bronze
• Denomination: Nummus
• Date: AD 367-383

The son of Valentinian I and the nephew of Valens, Gratian ascended to the throne of the Western Empire in 375. The early years of his reign were successful, as he ruled with great energy, and enjoyed a sterling reputation on the battlefield. But in time, Gratian grew lazy, content to pass the time hunting and indulging in other earthly pleasures. His indolence was matched by a growing sense of megalo-mania. His strange public appearances dressed as a Scythian warrior so soon after his humiliating defeat at Hadrianopolis turned the army against him. He was killed in a coup in 383.