2019-08-01 Thu

Pertinax, a Roman military leader and Roman Emperor was born on first August 126. He ruled the Roman Empire for a very small period of time from 1st January 193 to 28th March 193.

Pertinax began life as the son of a freed slave. Given a good education, he first became a school teacher, then began a career with the Roman Legions and rose quickly. He was soon promoted to the consular commands of Moesia, Dacia, and Syria.

Following the death of Commodus, Pertinax was acclaimed emperor. He attempted to institute several reform measures. One of those reforms, the restoration of discipline among the Praetorian Guards, led to a conflict that eventually culminated in Pertinax's assassination by the Guard on 28 March 193.

Depicted here is gold Aureus issued during his reign from Rome mint. The obverse of a coin depicts the laureate, draped bust of Pertinax. On the other hand, the reverse of a coin represents Providentia standing facing, head left, raising a right hand toward a star in upper left field, resting left hand on breast.

Image Source: Heritage Auctions