Roman Antoninianus Coins

Inv. No.: c149
Provenance: Ticinum(?)
Date: A.D. 276-282.
Weight: 4.10g
 
Obv.: Probus, radiate, helmeted, cuirassed, holding spear and shield.
VIRTVS PROBI AVG.

Rev.: Peace standing, holding sceptre in left hand, olive branch in right.
PAX AVGVSTI
T.VXXI

Obverse and reverse give contrasting, almost contradictory impressions. The obverse image and legend are appropriate for so warlike and powerful a ruler. Probus devoted much of his reign to securing the frontiers against barbarians in Gaul, Germany, Egypt and Thrace. He celebrated a splendid triumph in Rome in 281.

In 282 some troops proclaimed Carus, the Praetorian Prefect, as Emperor. The soldiers sent by Probus to deal with the trouble deserted to Carus, and Probus was murdered by others of his soldiers at Sirmium in the Danube region. The army had constantly been rebellious, owing apparently to Probus’ harsh discipline and his use of troops to plant vineyards. The reverse then seems to be another instance of wishful thinking.

Comparanda:
RIC, Probus 517.