PROBUS.(276-282).Antioch.Antoninianus.

Obv : IMP C M AVR PROBVS P F AVG.
Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right.

Rev : CLEMENTIA TEMP / B• / XXI.
Probus standing right, receiving Victory on globe from Jupiter standing left, holding sceptre.
RIC 922.
EX BIGA.

Condition : The coin is in relatively good condition, displaying a greenish-brown patina typical of ancient bronze coins. The surface shows some minor wear but maintains the clarity of the inscriptions and design elements. The portrait of the emperor on the obverse is well-defined, and the reverse scene, although slightly worn, remains distinct. The patina adds a historic, aged look to the coin, enhancing its overall appeal.Good very fine.

Material : Antoninianus.
Axis : 12h

Weight : 3.88 gr
Diameter : 21 mm

Probus, born Marcus Aurelius Probus in 232 CE, was a Roman emperor who ruled from 276 to 282 CE. His reign is often remembered for his efforts to restore stability to the Roman Empire during a period of frequent military crises and political instability known as the "Crisis of the Third Century." Probus was a highly skilled and experienced military commander, and much of his reign focused on defending the empire from external threats, especially from Germanic tribes and other barbarian groups.

Probus was born in Sirmium (modern-day Sremska Mitrovica in Serbia) and came from a modest background. His military career began under the emperors Valerian and Gallienus, and he quickly rose through the ranks due to his leadership and success on the battlefield. When Emperor Tacitus died in 276 CE, Probus was proclaimed emperor by his troops, a testament to the strong support he had among the Roman legions.

Probus’ reign was dominated by military campaigns aimed at securing the empire's borders, particularly in the west. He conducted successful campaigns against various Germanic tribes, including the Alamanni, Franks, and Vandals, who had been invading the empire's northern territories. He also dealt with threats in the eastern provinces, suppressing revolts and reasserting Roman control over Egypt, which was a vital grain supplier to the empire.

In addition to his military efforts, Probus focused on rebuilding and stabilizing the Roman economy and infrastructure, which had suffered due to decades of civil war and invasions. He is known for initiating large-scale agricultural projects, including the planting of vineyards in regions like Gaul and the Balkans, in an effort to boost local economies and reduce reliance on imported goods. Probus also undertook the construction and repair of fortifications across the empire, improving its defenses and contributing to a temporary period of stability.

Probus was a capable and energetic leader, and his policies and reforms helped bring about a brief revival in the fortunes of the Roman Empire. However, his reign ended abruptly in 282 CE when he was assassinated by his own soldiers, likely due to dissatisfaction with his strict discipline and the forced labor he imposed on them for construction projects. His death marked the end of his brief but effective rule, and he was succeeded by Carus.

Probus is remembered as one of the stronger emperors of the late 3rd century, particularly for his military achievements and efforts to restore order during a chaotic period in Roman history. His reign, though short, demonstrated the importance of military leadership and effective governance in maintaining the stability of the empire during a time of frequent crises.