Antoninianus - Probus IOVI CONS PROB AVG or IOVI CONS PROBI AVG, Jupiter

Émetteur Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Année 276-282
Type Standard circulation coin
Valeur Antoninianus (1)
Devise Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition Silver
Poids 3.3 g
Diamètre 21 mm
Épaisseur
Forme Round (irregular)
Technique Hammered
Orientation Variable alignment ↺
Graveur(s)
En circulation jusqu’à
Référence(s) RIC V.2#173f, OCRE#ric.5.pro.173
Description de l’avers Bust of Probus, radiate, cuirassed, right.
Écriture de l’avers Latin
Légende de l’avers IMP PROBVS P F AVG
(Translation: Imperator Marcus Aurelius Probus Pius Felix Augustus. Supreme commander (Imperator), Probus, the pious, the fortunate, emperor (Augustus).)
Description du revers Jupiter, standing front, head left, holding thunderbolt in right hand and sceptre in left hand.
Écriture du revers Latin
Légende du revers IOVI CONS PROB AVG or IOVI CONS PROBI AVG -/-//R(winged thunderbolt)B
(Translation: Iovi Conservatori Probi Augusti. To Jupiter, the protector of emperor (Augustus) Probus.)
Tranche
Atelier
Tirage ND (276-282) - `R(winged thunderbolt)B` in exergue; -
ND (276-282) - `R(winged thunderbolt)Δ` in exergue; -
ND (276-282) - `R(winged thunderbolt)ς` in exergue; -
ND (276-282) - `R(wreath)B` in exergue; -
ID Numisquare 1072215070
Informations supplémentaires

Historical Context: This Antoninianus (276-282 AD) hails from Emperor Probus, a pivotal figure during the Crisis of the Third Century. A Pannonian general, Probus restored Roman stability through military victories and internal reforms. The reverse legend, "IOVI CONS PROB AVG" (or "PROBI AVG"), "To Jupiter, the Preserver of Probus Augustus," underscores the emperor's reliance on divine protection and legitimacy, crucial for soldier-emperor authority. The coin's debased silver-washed bronze fabric exemplifies the era's economic instability.

Artistry: The artistic style of Probus's coinage, typical of the late third century, departs from classical ideals, favoring a robust, stylized representation. Specific engravers are unknown; mints produced coinage with varying refinement. Probus's portraits convey a strong, military bearing, emphasizing his commander role. The reverse iconography of Jupiter, the chief Roman deity, is rendered with vigor, though details can appear schematic, reflecting mass production under wartime conditions.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, key obverse high-points include the radiate crown's spikes, hair details, and facial contours (nose, chin). On the reverse, clarity of Jupiter's thunderbolt, sceptre, torso musculature, and facial profile are paramount. Legibility of both legends and any discernible mintmark significantly impacts grade. A well-centered strike, free from major planchet flaws or double striking, is highly desirable for this type.

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