Antoninianus - Probus AETERNITATI AVG; Sol
| Silver | 3.4 g | 22 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Probus (Marcus Aurelius Probus) (276-282) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 276-282 |
| Value | Antoninianus (1) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.4 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#292522 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Sol, radiate, standing left, raising right hand and holding globe in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: AETERNITATI AVG
Translation:
Aeternitati Augusti.
[Dedicated to] the immortal emperor (Augustus).
Comment
Source:Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin, which was issued during the reign of Probus (276-282 AD), was the first Roman coin to feature a portrait of the emperor on one side and a deity on the other. In this case, the coin features a portrait of Probus on one side and a depiction of the sun god Sol on the other, which is why it's inscribed with "AETERNITATI AVG" (Eternal Majesty) and "Sol" (Sun) on either side of the emperor's portrait. This innovation in coin design was a significant departure from previous Roman coins, which typically featured mythological figures or personifications of abstract concepts. The use of the emperor's portrait on coins became a standard feature of Roman coinage from then on, and it helped to promote the emperor's image and legitimacy throughout the empire.