Lot 2064

Description

Probus, (A.D. 276-282), base metal quinarius, Rome mint (1.214 grams), obv. laureate helmeted bust, wearing a lion skin, to left of Probus holding a shield and spear, around VIRTVS P ROBI AVG, rev. Victory standing to left holding wreath and palm, around VICTORIA AVG, (cf.S.3382, cf.RIC 270, C.-). Some dirt attached to the coin, otherwise nearly extremely fine, the obverse/reverse type apparently unpublished, the denomination itself is very rare.

The quinarius is known to occur with several different bust obverses and various reverses types, the obverse is also known for several different obverse legends. This coin's obverse bust type with its distinctive legend is unpublished and is not known for any denomination for Probus, the reverse type is known for the quinarius but this is known only coupled with standard legend and laureate cuirassed bust to right. A most important type for a very rare denomination.