Triton XX, Lot: 790. Estimate $20000. Sold for $42500. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

Septimius Severus. AD 193-211. AV Aureus (20mm, 7.24 g, 12h). Rome mint. Struck AD 210. SEVERVS PIVS AVG, laureate head right / P M TR P XVIII COS III P P, Victory advancing right, holding trophy over shoulder in left hand, leading small male figure with right. RIC IV 237; Calicó 2517; BMCRE 23; Biaggi –. Superb EF, lustrous.

From the Continental Collection.

All of Septimius’ Victory types from 209 to 211 must refer to the campaign against the Caledonians of Britain, even when it is not explicitly stated. It would be the emperor’s last campaign, as he fell ill and died at his headquarters in York in February of 211. Caracalla took command of the forces following Severus’ death and made peace with the Caledonians on less-than-favorable terms. The Romans were required to retreat to Hadrian’s Wall.

The references above describe the diminutive figure being led by Victory as either a captive (RIC, BMCRE) or child (Calicó).