Maximinus Iovio Propagat Orbis Terrarvm From Antioch

Here's a rarely seen coin with a unique reverse legend that I recently added. During the Tetrarchy, rulers were related to either Jupiter of Hercules. Shortly before his elevation to Augustus, Maximinus is showing off his relationship with Jupiter. The reverse translates roughly as -- To the Jovian [Maximinus] expander of the whole world.

Antioch was likely his principal residence of Maximinus from 309- 311, so not surprising this special type was struck there. This type may also have referenced the campaign against the Sassanids (not only the special bust, but also the legend that references expansion) waged by Maximinus (late 309-early 310) and perhaps also his desire to be named Augustus; which may have happened during the same campaign-- "at the last general muster he had been saluted by his army under the title of Augustus." (Lactantius XXXII) Galerius recognized him as Augustus (mid 310) but since the troops of Maximinus had already raised him up, this was probably just a formality.





Maximinus II
A.D. 310
AE follis 25mm 7.2g
MAXIMINVS NOB CAES; laureate bust right, half-length, in imperial mantle, right hand raised.
IOVIO PROPAGAT ORBIS TERRARVM; Maximinus, togate, holding victory on globe; in left field sigma (retrograde); star over altar in right.
In ex. ANT
RIC VI Antioch 134