PROBUS (276-282). Antoninianus. Serdica.

Obv: DEO ET DOMINO PROBO INVICTO AVG.
Radiate and mantled bust left, holding eagle-tipped sceptre.
Rev: VIRTVS PROBI AVG / KA•Γ•.
Probus riding horse right, holding shield and spearing fallen enemy to right; shield below.

RIC 885.

Very rare

Following Aurelian’s introduction of the cult of Sol Invictus, the claim to rule by divine right and the use of bold epithets on coins became a constant feature among his successors. Probus even went so far as to call himself ‘Deus et Dominus’ (= God and Lord) on some rare issues from Serdica, such as this Antoninianus. However, he rarely used the title, whereas his successor Carus made much more widespread use of it.

Condition: Extremely fine.

Weight: 3.94 g.
Diameter: 24 mm.

Estimate: € 650