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 iconography, strongly emphasizing his role as a victorious commander and defender of the empire.
The obverse features a right-facing bust of the emperor wearing a radiate crown and cuirass, with the legend IMP C M AVR PROBVS P AVG, presenting his name and titulature as Marcus Aurelius Probus Augustus.
The reverse depicts Probus galloping right on horseback, spearing an enemy, with the legend VIRTVS PROBI AVG and the exergue mark KA•A•. This scene represents one of the most expressive military depictions in Roman coinage, showing the emperor directly 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 as a triumphant warrior 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 and cuirassed bust right
IMP C M AVR PROBVS P AVG
Reverse: emperor galloping right, spearing enemy, shield beneath horse, KA•A• in exergue
VIRTVS PROBI AVG
Diameter 24 mm, weight 3.71 g
