© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Aureus - Probus VIRTVS AVG
| Gold | 6.2 g | 21 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Probus (Marcus Aurelius Probus) (276-282) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 276-282 |
| Value | Aureus (25⁄2) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 6.2 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#293949 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Probus, seated left, receiving globe from Mars and being crowned by Victory; in background, soldier and two ensigns.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
VIRTVS AVG
-/-//(wreath)
Translation:
Virtus Augusti.
Courage of the emperor.
Comment
Mass varies: 5.91–6.51 g;Example of this type:
Trustees of the British Museum
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Aureus - Probus (VIRTVS AVG) coin was issued during the reign of Emperor Probus (276-282 AD), who was known for his military campaigns and agricultural reforms. The coin's obverse features the image of Probus, while the reverse shows the goddess Victory holding a trophy and a shield inscribed with the legend "VIRTVS AVG" (the virtue of the emperor). The coin was made of gold and weighed 6.2 grams, which was a significant amount for a circulating coin at that time. Interestingly, the Aureus - Probus (VIRTVS AVG) coin was issued during a time when the Roman Empire was facing economic challenges, including inflation and debasement of the currency. Despite these challenges, the coin remained a valuable and sought-after currency, reflecting the enduring value of gold and the stability of the Roman Empire's economy.
