To be a Roman emperor was a risky enough business even for a seasoned general, but especially when one was only eight years old! Gratian was the son of Emperor Valentinian I and Marina Severa. His father died when he was nine, and consequently Gratian was declared sole emperor of the west. The government came under the effective control of Gratian's tutor, the poet Ausonius. The young ruler spent most of his reign doing battle against the fierce German tribe the Alamanni. In A.D.383, while attempting to reach the Alps, Gratian fell victim to a treacherous conspiracy. It is said of him that he was an agreeable and cultivated youth, a very pious Christian and a good soldier. This handsome bronze coin shows the youthful emperor facing right. On the reverse Gratian is seen standing advancing right dragging a captive and holding a labarum (military ensign). History records that Gratian was, "eloquent, controlled, warlike and merciful, and seemed to rival the best of his predecessors while the down was still spreading over his cheeks."