Marcus Cassianus Latinius Postumus, A.D. 260-269. Taking advantage of several revolts in the Empire and a quarrel with Soloninus, the son Gallienus, Postumus led a successful campaign to establish a separatist Romano-Gallic Empire in Gaul & Spain. There was a government established that functioned like the model in Rome and the "Gallic Empire" may be considered the first Western type government in northern Europe. Infighting soon occurred and with the 15 year empire it had a succession of 6 rulers, some very short, before they were defeated in A.D. 274.
OB: IMP C M CASS LAT POSTVMVS P F AVG; radiate, draped & cuirassed bust right. RX: LAETITIA (too weak to see); AVG; Galley right. RIC143, VM83, S3042/3142, C179. Very nice portrait, exceptional condition except for weakness on the reverse, pale green patina. 25.3 gm, 33 mm
For a brief History of the Gallic Empire in the Moneta Library:
VIEW & DOWNLOAD: Gallic Empire by Percy Webb at this: Gallic Empire
Separatist Empires: 260-274 A.D.
Postumus Dbl. Ses. - Galley
Click or tap the photo to zoom and browse.
You can read or print an excellent article on the history of the Gallic Empire at:
http://www.4shared.com/file/2585964/b5f25c5e/Gallic_Empire.html