Maxentius medallion - $312k

This Maxentius (AD 307-312) AV quaternio or medallion of 4-aurei, NGC MS 5/5 - 2/5, is exceptionally rare – it is one of just two known. It was expected to fetch $200k. This medallion was issued as a commemorative during the restoration of the temple of Urbis Veneris, erected by Hadrian in AD 135 and damaged by fire in 307 AD. Marcus Aurelius Valerius Maxentius (c. 283 – 28 October 312) was the son of former Emperor Maximian and the son-in-law of Emperor Galerius. The latter part of his reign was preoccupied with civil war. Defeated at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312, Maxentius purportedly perished by drowning in the Tiber river. Maxentius was the last emperor to permanently reside in Rome.