Avitus
Imperator Caesar Eparchius Avitus Augustus
Eparchius Avitus was a Gallic aristocrat and general who was proclaimed emperor at Arles with the support of the Visigothic king Theoderic II. He was the last emperor to have serious support in Gaul. His reign lasted little over a year before the powerful general Ricimer and the Danubian officer Majorian deposed him. He was made bishop of Piacenza (a face-saving exile) but died shortly after, possibly murdered.
Avitus represents the last moment when Gaul had a genuine stake in imperial politics. After his deposition, power passed decisively to the Italian generalissimos. His coins are scarce and reflect the westward shift of late western mint production.
Key Events
Coinage
The coinage of Avitus is rare. Struck primarily at Arles and Rome during his brief reign, his types include the standard VICTORIA AVGGG and SALVS REIPVBLICAE reverses. His portrait is that of an older, bearded aristocrat. Arles mint issues reflect his Gallic power base.
Denominations
Notable Types
- VICTORIA AVGGG types
- SALVS REIPVBLICAE types
Common Reverses
Active Mints
Related Resources
Further Reading
- Roman Imperial Coinage, Volume X,
- Roman Coins and Their Values, Volume V,