Antoninianus - Probus radiate, imperial mantle; CONSERV T AVG; Sol
| Silver | 3.5 g | 22.5 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 | 3.5 g |
| Diameter | 22.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#293461 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Sol, radiate, standing front, head left, raising right hand and holding globe in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
CONSERVA AVG or CONSERVAT AVG
-/-//TXXT
Translation:
Conservatori Augusti.
Protector of the emperor.
Comment
Note there are several variations for RIC 351, which are entered as RIC 351 (a), (b), (c) and (d). See links below.This type, 'imperial mantle and spear', has not been verified to exist. See https://probvs.net/probvs/busts/b-bus-bustforms.html at the bottom of the page: "Radiate bust left in imperial mantle, with spear in place of sceptre, seen from back".
Mass varies: 3.4–3.7 g;
Diameter varies: 21.75–23.61 mm;
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin was issued during the reign of Emperor Probus (276-282 AD), who was known for his military campaigns and agricultural reforms. One of his notable achievements was the introduction of a new coinage system that replaced the debased currency of the previous emperors, which had suffered from rampant inflation. The Antoninianus coin was part of this new system and was designed to be a more stable and reliable currency. It features the emperor's radiate crown and imperial mantle on the obverse, and the god Sol on the reverse, symbolizing the Roman Empire's power and prosperity. Despite its small size, this coin is a significant artifact of Roman history and offers a glimpse into the economic and political reforms of the time.