Civilization: Roman Empire
Ruler: Carus
Mint: Rome
Year: ca. 282 AD
Composition: Billon
Denomination: Antoninianus
Diameter: 22.0mm
Weight: 3.11g
Reference:

Obverse
IMP C M AVR CARVS P F AVG - Radiate, cuirassed bust right

Reverse
VIRTVS AVGG - Virtus standing left, leaning on shield, holding spear. Mintmark ΓKA.

Carus was a Roman Emperor who ruled from 283 to 285 AD. He is best known for his military campaigns against the Sasanian Empire, where he achieved significant victories, including the capture of the Persian capital, Ctesiphon. Carus was a proponent of strengthening the Roman military and enhancing its capabilities, which helped consolidate Roman authority in the eastern provinces. His reign was cut short when he died under mysterious circumstances during a campaign in 285 AD, leading to speculation about whether he was assassinated or succumbed to illness.