Leu Numismatik AG
Auction 13 27 May 2023
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UNCERTAIN GERMANIC TRIBES, Aurum Barbarorum. 'Aureus' (Gold, 20 mm, 5.40 g, 12 h), 'Probus Group F'. Imitating Probus, 276-282. UDCMO OIOISIIC Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Probus to left, holding spear over his right shoulder and shield on his left. Rev. IIICTOEP[...]PSEMPEIB Stylized male figure standing left, holding uncertain small object in his right hand and large aegis-like object on a stick in his left. Aurum Barbarorum III, 2405 (same dies). Original suspension loop broken off and holed, otherwise, fine.
From the Aurum Barbarorum Collection.
There is, clearly, no straightforward Roman prototype for this odd reverse. However, there is an argument to be made that it is loosely based on Maximianus' issue showing Hercules slaying the Hydra (Calicó 4656 ff.), with the hero's club being reduced to a small round object and the monster to the aegis-shaped object on a stick.
From the Aurum Barbarorum Collection.
There is, clearly, no straightforward Roman prototype for this odd reverse. However, there is an argument to be made that it is loosely based on Maximianus' issue showing Hercules slaying the Hydra (Calicó 4656 ff.), with the hero's club being reduced to a small round object and the monster to the aegis-shaped object on a stick.