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Two German Captives Seated in an Attitude of Mourning at the Base of a Trophy of Captured Arms on the Reverse of an Antoninianus of Probus

The muscled cuirass, probably worn by an enemy officer shows quite clearly in the image on the reverse of this coin. What appear to be thongs or straps used to cinch the cuirass up tight around the back of the wearer dangle loosely on either side of this expensive and custom tailored set of armor. The warrior's vitals and genitalia are protected by loosely linked straps which are attached to and hang down from the cuirass. These were probably made of thick cowhide reinforced with steel strips. This is the most detailed depiction of ancient armor on any coin in the author's collection. What appear to be two short swords or gladii are fastened to the pole supporting the cuirass, On top of all, the hint of a steel helmet is seen. Why are pieces of good, high quality standard Roman military gear showing up as captured booty after a victory over the Germans? This poses a bit of a riddle for the author. Was all this materiel captured in a previous debacle or has somebody been getting rich selling military equipment to the enemy? Or, is this display just intended to look good on the reverse of a coin? If any scholars amongst the readership can shed some light on this, please jump back to the site's home page and use the email link to the author.

The man and woman seated at the foot of this trophy with hands tied behind their back do not appear happy at all about the situation. they are German captives, destined to be sold into slavery if they are found to be strong and fit. If they are old or infirm, reducing the price they would fetch as slaves in the glutted market after a major victory, one does not need to use too much imagination to guess their fate in these harsh and brutal times.
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