 Claudius, 41-54 A.D. Aureus, 44-45 A.D. Rome and Lugdunum. Laureate head r.; TI. CLAVD. CAESAR AVG. P.M. TR.P.IIII. Rv. Battlemented wall enclosing Praetorian camp. The camp consists of five buildings, behind which stands a soldier, holding a spear, an aquila before him; behind him a pediment flanked by two fortified towers; IMPER. RECEPT. 7.64 grams. RIC 25 (R2), Cal.361a. A rare and historic type. Nicely detailed. Nice Very Fine. (Est. $6,000-$8,000)
To the Praetorian Guard, Claudius owed both his life and his throne. When Praetorians searched the palace after Caligula was slain, they found a terrified Claudius. They took him to their camp, illustrated on this coin, keeping him there overnight. The next day they hailed him emperor, imposing their will on a reluctant Senate.
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