Clodius Macer declared himself independent governor of Africa Proconsularis in early 68 AD, cutting off Rome's grain supply as leverage against Nero — a stranglehold that made him briefly one of the most dangerous men in the empire. He never formally claimed the title of emperor, styling himself instead as propraetorian legate, which gives his coinage an anomalous quasi-republican character unique among the usurpers of that year. Nero's assassination removed his main justification, and Galba had him executed before the year was out.
The Legio III Augusta reference on this issue reflects Macer's attempt to build a personal army in North Africa. The legion had deep roots in the province.
Clodius Macer declared himself independent governor of Africa Proconsularis in early 68 AD, cutting off Rome's grain supply as leverage against Nero — a stranglehold that made him briefly one of the most dangerous men in the empire. He never formally claimed the title of emperor, styling himself instead as propraetorian legate, which gives his coinage an anomalous quasi-republican character unique among the usurpers of that year. Nero's assassination removed his main justification, and Galba had him executed before the year was out.
The Legio III Augusta reference on this issue reflects Macer's attempt to build a personal army in North Africa. The legion had deep roots in the province.