
Maximinus Thrax, denarius, silver, reign 235–238, minted 235–238
Lot 470 · Consigned by hhf
Closed
Description
Maximinus Thrax, denarius, silver, reign 235–238, minted 235–238, weight 3.2 g, diameter 20 mm. Obverse: Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; legend MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG GERM. Reverse: Fides standing front, head turned left, holding two standards; legend FIDES MILITVM. Strike: well-centered with full details visible on both sides. Toning: light silver-grey with minor darker patina in recessed areas. References: RIC IV Maximinus Thrax 18A. This denarius was issued during the reign of Maximinus Thrax, who ruled the Roman Empire from 235 to 238. The reverse type, depicting Fides with military standards, highlights the theme of loyalty among the troops, an important propaganda message for an emperor who relied heavily on the support of the army. The obverse legend emphasizes Maximinus’ official titles and his military successes in Germania. Coins of this period reflect the militarized nature of imperial authority during the Crisis of the Third Century, as well as the prominence of military virtues in imperial propaganda.