Antoninianus - Probus SOLI INVICTO; Sol
| Silver | 3.9 g | 23.5 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 | 3.9 g |
| Diameter | 23.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#293810 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Sol, radiate, in quadriga, galloping left, raising right hand and holding whip in left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
SOLI INVICTO
-/-//XXIP
Translation:
Soli Invicto.
The undefeated Sol.
Comment
Mass varies: 3.38–5.15 g;Diameter varies: 22–25 mm;
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Antoninianus coin, which was issued during the reign of Emperor Probus (276-282 AD), was the first Roman coin to feature a solar radiate design on the reverse, which is why it's often referred to as the "Sol" coin. This design change was a significant departure from the traditional designs of Roman coins, which typically featured images of gods, goddesses, or other mythological figures. The use of a solar radiate design on the Antoninianus coin may have been intended to promote the idea of the Roman Empire as a powerful and radiant force, much like the sun.