Siscia Probi Avg reverse is by far one of the most interesting and desirable reverses in the whole Probus' coinage. It underlines the close link and special bond between the emperor and the city of Siscia.
This particular variant of the Siscia Probi Avg reverse (Alfoldi reverse no. 70) is particularly rare and distinguishes itself from the much more common (though still rare) Alfoldi variant no. 69 by the fact that the two river gods (Savvs and Colapis) are very close to one another and are placed underneath the personification of Siscia instead of being separated and placed on each side of Siscia (as in Alfoldi variant no. 69).
Alfoldi does not list this variant (no. 70) with military bust nor with the XXIVI mintmark.
Unpublished unicum of the highest numismatic interest! Good extremely fine. One of the highlights of my Probus collection.
Provenance: Ex Numismatica Ars classica auction no. 92 Part I lot 668, May 2016 (hammer price: 1,500 CHF + buyer's premium)
Obverse: IMP C M AVR PROBVS P F AVG
Reverse: SISCIA PROBI AVG = Siscia seated between two river gods: Savvs and Colapis, holding diadem in her hands.
BUST TYPE: E1 = Radiate, cuirassed and helmeted bust left, holding spear and shield
FIELD / EXERGUE MARKS: -/-//XXIVI
WEIGHT 3.15g / AXIS: 12h / DIAMETER 21-22mm
