Pertinax

Pertinax (1 August 126 – 28 March 193) was a Roman military leader and Roman Emperor for the first three months of 193. He succeeded the insane Commodus to become the first emperor during the Year of the Five Emperors. Born the son of a freed slave, Pertinax became an officer in the army. He was promoted to higher-ranking positions in both the military and political spheres, leading to the rank of provincial governor and urban prefect. He was a member of the Roman Senate. Following the death of Commodus, Pertinax was acclaimed emperor.

Didius Julianus

Pertinax attempted to institute several reforms during his short reign of 86 days. One of those reforms, the restoration of discipline among the Praetorian Guards, led to conflict that cost Pertinax his life. The Praetorian Guard expected a generous donativum on his ascension, and when they were disappointed, agitated until he produced money, selling off Commodus' property. He was assassinated by the Guard on 28 March 193. After his death, the Praetorians auctioned off the imperial title, which was won by the wealthy senator Didius Julianus, whose reign would end on 1 June 193 in death.

Pertinax gold is rare and valuable. Gold aureus of Pertinax. EF $56,525 in 2017.