Antoninianus of Probus (AD 276–282), struck at the mint of Siscia, belonging to issues produced during a period of intense military activity and consolidation of imperial authority following the Crisis of the Third Century. The coinage of Probus is notable for its rich iconography and strong military emphasis, highlighting the emperor as an active commander and restorer of stability.
The obverse features a right-facing bust of the emperor wearing a radiate crown, cuirass, and cloak, 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 standing right, clasping hands with Concordia, with the mark Γ between them, and the legend CONCORD MILIT, with XXI in the exergue. Concordia, as the personification of harmony and unity, here directly represents the relationship between the emperor and the army.
The handshake motif (dextrarum iunctio) symbolizes agreement, loyalty, and mutual trust, forming a key element of imperial propaganda. The legend CONCORD MILIT (Concordia Militum) emphasizes unity within the army, which in the realities of the 3rd century was the foundation of imperial power. This issue strongly conveys the message of military stability and loyalty to the emperor.
Roman Imperial
Probus (276–282), Antoninianus 276-282, Siscia mint
Obverse: radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right
IMP C M AVR PROBVS P F AVG
Reverse: Probus and Concordia facing the each other and clasping hands, Γ in lower centre, XXI in exergue
CONCORD MILIT
Diameter 22 mm, weight 4.26 g
