UNCERTAIN GERMANIC TRIBES, Pseudo-Imperial coinage. Late 3rd-early 4th centuries. 'Aureus' (Subargentum, 22 mm, 6.00 g, 12 h), 'Probus Group B'. IIHDIPDИTΘIHPISIOIICIISI Helmeted and cuirassed bust of Probus to left, with transverse spear pointing downward behind. Rev. O S II /IISIICTII Victory driving slow quadriga to left, holding wreath in her right hand and reins in her left. Cf. Calicó 4230 (for prototype). Original suspension loop broken off and with minor breaks in plating, otherwise, very fine.


This unusual piece is a lovely later imitation of Group A (see above, lots 1900-1902): the legends are now totally blundered and the spear freely floats downwards behind Probus' bust, as if the emperor had been struck by an arrow in his neck. Also, it is worth noting that this is a rare case of a subargentum coin, meaning that the core consists of silver and not of bronze, with a thin layer of electrum around.