Antoninianus - Probus (SALVS AVG; Salus) (276-282) front Antoninianus - Probus (SALVS AVG; Salus) (276-282) back
Antoninianus - Probus (SALVS AVG; Salus) (276-282) photo
© Institute of Classics/University of Graz

Antoninianus - Probus SALVS AVG; Salus

 
Silver 4 g -
Description
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
4 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#294689
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Salus, draped, standing left, feeding out of patera in right hand serpent rising from altar and holding sceptre in left hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
SALVS AVG
-/B//-

Translation:
Salus Augusti.
Health of the emperor (Augustus).

Comment

Example of this type:
Institute of Classics/University of Graz

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 personification of the Roman state, in this case Salus (Salvation), on the other. This innovation marked a significant departure from previous Roman coins, which had typically featured images of gods and goddesses. The introduction of the emperor's portrait on coins was a way to emphasize the emperor's authority and legitimacy, and it became a standard feature of Roman coins for centuries to come.