Antoninianus of Probus (AD 276–282), struck at the mint of Rome, belonging to issues produced during the consolidation of imperial authority and stabilization of the empire following the Crisis of the Third Century. The coinage of Probus frequently employs religious symbolism, emphasizing divine support for the emperor’s rule.
The obverse features a right-facing bust of the emperor wearing a radiate crown and cuirass, with the legend PROBVS P F AVG, presenting his name and titulature as Pius Felix Augustus.
The reverse depicts Jupiter standing left, holding a thunderbolt and sceptre, with the legend IOVI CONS PROB AVG and the exergue marks: R, a thunderbolt symbol, and B. Jupiter, as the supreme deity of the Roman pantheon, represents authority, power, and divine protection over the empire.
The legend IOVI CONS PROB AVG (Iovi Conservatori Probi Augusti) refers to Jupiter as the protector and guardian of the emperor. This motif fits within a broader propagandistic program emphasizing that Probus’ reign is under the special protection of the highest god, reinforcing his legitimacy and authority.
The depiction of Jupiter with the thunderbolt highlights his power to uphold cosmic order, making this issue a clear statement of divine support for imperial rule.
Mint luster on the reverse.
Roman Imperial
Probus (276–282), Antoninianus 276-282, Rome mint
Obverse: radiate and cuirassed bust right
PROBVS P F AVG
Reverse: Jupiter standing left, chlamys draped over upper chest and left shoulder, holding thunderbolt and sceptre, R thunderbolt B in exergue
IOVI CONS PROB AVG
Diameter 21 mm, weight 4.46 g
