Balbinus (April-July AD 238). AR antoninianus (24mm, 4.70 gm, 6h). NGC Choice XF S 5/5 - 5/5, Fine Style. Rome. IMP CAES D CAEL BALBINVS AVG, radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Balbinus right, seen from front / CONCORDIA AVGG, legend around two clasped right hands. RIC IV.II 10. A broad, oblong flan boasts matte surfaces with crisp details. Ex the Robert S. Sloan Collection; Josiane Védrines, with old dealer's envelope included. Balbinus, a figure cloaked in the shadowy annals of Roman history, briefly ascended to power in the tumultuous year 238 AD during a period known as the Year of the Six Emperors. A respected senator and seasoned politician, his reign lasted a mere 99 days, but it was marked by intrigue and political maneuvering. Appointed co-emperor alongside Pupienus, Balbinus faced the daunting task of quelling both internal strife and external threats. By minting coins with Genius Senatus, Balbinus sought to legitimize his rule as aligned with, and sanctioned by, the Senate. Associating himself with the Senate signaled that he represented the established and recognized authority in the empire. Ultimately, Balbinus was unsuccessful in winning over the populace; his administration failed to enact meaningful reforms or stabilize the economy, leaving the Roman people disillusioned with his leadership. Eventually, the populace's unrest led to a mob storming the palace. In the ensuing violence, both Balbinus and Pupienus were brutally murdered, bringing a swift and brutal conclusion to their brief co-emperorship. HID09801242017 © 2023 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

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