Antoninianus of Probus (AD 276–282), struck at the mint of Rome, belonging to issues produced during a period of intense military campaigns and consolidation of imperial authority following the Crisis of the Third Century. The coinage of Probus is characterized by dynamic iconography and a strong military emphasis, highlighting his role as an active commander and defender of the empire.
The obverse features a right-facing bust of the emperor wearing a radiate crown and cuirass, with the legend IMP C M AVR PROBVS P F AVG, giving his full titulature as Marcus Aurelius Probus Pius Felix Augustus.
The reverse depicts Probus on horseback moving left, raising his right hand in a gesture of greeting (adventus), while holding a sceptre in the other; to the left stands a captive with hands bound behind his back. The scene is accompanied by the legend ADVENTVS PROBI AVG and the exergue mark RZ. This type refers to the ceremonial arrival of the emperor, typically following a successful military campaign.
The adventus motif belongs to the classical repertoire of imperial propaganda, emphasizing the triumphant return of the ruler and his military achievements. The presence of the captive further reinforces the message of victory and domination, making this issue a clear statement of imperial strength and authority.
Attractive coin that exhibits plenty of mint luster.
Roman Imperial
Probus (276–282), Antoninianus 276-282, Rome mint
Obverse: radiate, cuirassed bust right
IMP C M AVR PROBVS P F AVG
Reverse: Probus on horseback to left, raising his right hand in salute and holding scepter in his left, on left captive to left with hands bound behind his back, RZ in exergue
ADVENTVS PROBI AVG
Diameter 24 mm, weight 4.63 g
