Probus Medallion (minted coin by Probus in 281)
The only extant (surviving) example of a gold medallion of emperor Probus (276-282 AD), this piece is both historically significant and visually stunning.
While it technically can’t be considered a coin (rather than having a legal tender value and being intended for circulation, it would have instead been given as a donative (gift) to a high ranking Roman), it’s similar in most regards, and so deserves a spot on this list.
The obverse features jugate (conjoined) busts of the emperor and the god Hercules, a symbol of military strength and Roman courage. And on the reverse, the emperor crossing the Rhine, coming back to Rome, victorious.
The river is personified, as was Roman and Greek tradition, lying in the waves below. On the ship we see Victory and Mars (god of war), Probus between them, along with two Roman soldiers.
