236-238 AD. Rome mint. Obv: MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG GERM legend with laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right. Rev: VICTORIA GERM legend with Victory standing left holding wreath and palm, captive at feet. RIC 23; BMC 186; Sear 8318.3.21 grams. ("). Ex Yavuz collection. Maximinus’ legendary size and strength caught the attention of the emperor Septimius Severus, who promoted him to the position of imperial bodyguard, and later, by Caracalla, to centurion, a position he forfeited following Caracalla’s assassination. Maximinus resumed his military career under Severus Alexander, when he was appointed governor of the frontier province of Mesopotamia. Dissatisfied with the non-aggressive policy of Severus Alexander, Maximinus mutinied, killing the emperor and his mother, and the troops raised Maximinus to the rank of emperor. The victories achieved by the new emperor beyond the frontiers of the Empire came at the cost of internal stability. The emperor was feared both by the military and also by the population at large, prompting a senatorial plot to bring about his downfall. Maximinus and his son were eventually murdered as they slept after their midday meal. [No Reserve]