Diocletian, BI Antoninianus, Siscia Mint, 289-290 AD

$65.00

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SKU: R17.2 Categories: ,

Description

Roman Imperial, Diocletian, BI Antoninianus (billon, 3.65g, 22.3mm), Siscia Mint, 289-290 AD
Obv: IMP C C VAL DIOCLETIANVS P F AVG; radiate and cuirassed bust of Diocletian right
Rev: CONSERVATOR AVGG; Diocletian and Jupiter, each holding a sceptre, standing facing each other and sacrificing at altar, ā€¢Ī“ā€¢XXIā€¢BIā€¢ in exergue
Ref: RIC 263 (var.) Rarity/Choice: Scarce Inscription in Exergue, VF (well-preserved with nearly all silvering eroded)
Note: Diocletian, who ruled from AD 284 to 305, was a pivotal figure in Roman history, known for his extensive reforms that aimed to stabilize and strengthen the empire. His reign marked the beginning of the Tetrarchy, a system that divided imperial power among four rulers to better manage the vast Roman Empire. Diocletian’s reforms included administrative restructuring, economic changes, and military enhancements.Ā  The obverse features a radiate and cuirassed bust of Diocletian facing right. The radiate crown denotes his divine status, while the cuirass signifies his military role and protection of the empire.Ā  The reverse shows Diocletian and Jupiter standing facing each other, each holding a scepter and performing a sacrifice at an altar. This imagery underscores the divine support and the emperorā€™s role in maintaining stability and order. Jupiterā€™s presence reinforces the divine favor and legitimacy of Diocletianā€™s rule.