Antoninianus - Probus CONSERVAT AVG; Sol
| Silver | 3.7 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 | 3.7 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#293695 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Sol, radiate, standing left, raising right hand and holding globe in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
CONSERVAT AVG
-/-//XXIP
Translation:
Conservatori Augusti.
Protector of the emperor.
Comment
Mass varies: 3.45–4 g;Diameter varies: 21.5–23 mm;
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin was issued during the reign of Probus (276-282 AD), who was known for his efforts to restore the Roman Empire's economy and military. One of his strategies was to introduce a new currency, the Antoninianus, which was meant to replace the debased denarius. The Antoninianus was made of silver and had a higher purity than the denarius, which had been devalued over time through excessive minting. The coin's design featured the emperor's image on one side and the god Sol on the other, symbolizing the empire's connection to the Roman sun god and highlighting the coin's value as a symbol of prosperity and stability. Despite Probus' efforts, the Antoninianus did not last long and was eventually replaced by other currencies, but it remains an interesting artifact of Roman economic history.