Antoninianus of Probus (AD 276–282), struck at the mint of Serdica, belonging to issues produced during a period of intense military campaigns and consolidation of imperial authority following the Crisis of the Third Century. The coinage of Probus is notable for its highly dynamic and expressive iconography, emphasizing his role as an active commander and victorious leader.
The obverse features a left-facing bust of the emperor wearing a radiate crown, helmet, and cuirass, holding a spear and shield, with the legend IMP C M AVR PROBVS P AVG, presenting his name and titulature as Marcus Aurelius Probus Augustus. This militarized portrait type is among the most striking variants, portraying the emperor as the embodiment of strength and military virtue (virtus).
The reverse depicts Probus galloping right on horseback, spearing an enemy, with the legend VIRTVS PROBI AVG and the exergue mark KAA. This scene represents one of the most dynamic battle depictions in Roman coinage, directly showing the emperor engaged in combat.
The legend VIRTVS PROBI AVG (“the courage of Probus Augustus”) emphasizes the bravery, strength, and military capability of the ruler. The image of the emperor personally defeating an opponent serves as powerful military propaganda, presenting Probus as the unquestioned defender of the empire and guarantor of its security.
Roman Imperial
Probus (276–282), Antoninianus 276-282, Serdica mint
Obverse: radiate, helmeted and cuirassed bust left holding spear and shield
IMP C M AVR PROBVS P AVG
Reverse: emperor galloping right, spearing enemy, shield beneath horse, KAA in exergue
VIRTVS PROBI AVG
Diameter 24 mm, weight 3.94 g
