Potin Tetradrachm - Maximian - Alexandria - Elpis Reverse

This billon tetradrachm was struck at Alexandria under Maximian, who ruled as co-emperor with Diocletian from 286 to 305 AD. The regnal date L B in the fields marks it as a second-year issue, dating it to 287/288 AD. The obverse shows the laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Maximian viewed from the front, with a Greek legend giving his imperial titles, in keeping with Alexandria's long tradition of striking its own Greek-legended coinage separate from the rest of the empire. This example is exceptionally sharply struck, notwithstanding a planchet flaw.

The reverse depicts Elpis, the Greek personification of hope and counterpart to the Roman Spes, walking left while holding a flower and lifting the drapery of her garment with her left hand. The flower is her characteristic attribute, evoking the promise of renewal and growth, while the gesture of raising her skirt reflects the traditional pose of Spes striding forward. Together the type expresses confidence in the continuity and future prosperity of the reign.

21.5 mm

7.49 g