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Maximinus I Thrax
Maximinus I (AD 235-238). AR denarius (21mm,3.00gm 6h). Rome, AD 235-236. IMP MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG, laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Maximinus right, seen from behind / SALVS AVGVSTI, Salus seated left, feeding serpent rising from altar at left. RIC IV 14.
Ex. Heritage Auctions, lot 61256, 02/02/2022.
Gaius Julius Verus Maximinus, known as Maximinus I Thrax, ruled as Roman emperor from 235 to 238 CE during one of the most chaotic periods in Roman history, the Crisis of the Third Century. His rise to power marked a significant departure from the aristocratic norms of imperial succession, as he was the first emperor of non-senatorial origin and hailed from a humble Thracian background. This soldier-emperor’s reign epitomized the military dominance and political instability that characterized this era.
Maximinus gained prominence through his extraordinary physical strength and military prowess, earning the favor of Emperor Alexander Severus. Following Alexander’s assassination by his own troops, Maximinus was declared emperor by the army, signaling the beginning of a reign deeply rooted in martial authority. His rule, however, was marked by a harsh and oppressive governance style. Lacking the diplomatic and administrative experience of his predecessors, Maximinus relied heavily on military campaigns and excessive taxation to consolidate power.
A significant focus of his reign was the defense of the empire’s frontiers. Maximinus led successful campaigns against Germanic tribes, earning the loyalty of his soldiers but alienating the Senate and Roman elite. His disregard for traditional Roman institutions and brutal methods of governance fueled widespread discontent.
Maximinus’ unpopularity culminated in rebellion. In 238 CE, the Senate supported a revolt led by Gordian I and Gordian II, who were soon replaced by new emperors. In response, Maximinus marched on Rome but was betrayed and assassinated by his own soldiers during the siege of Aquileia.
Maximinus I Thrax's brief and tumultuous reign symbolizes the volatility of the Crisis of the Third Century, where the empire was increasingly dominated by the military and plagued by internal divisions. His story reflects the fragile balance of power in a fragmented and struggling Roman state.
The quality of coinage under Maximinus I Thrax declined significantly, as we might expect from a "Barracks Emperor" ruling from the field. This coin is in a very good state of preservation but the fineness of the artistry is gone. The portrait is somewhat realistic however, showing Maximinus' protruding jaw which may have reflected his supposedly enormous stature.