Procopius (AD 365–366) Roman Empire AE3 Nummus NGC Ch F

Procopius — A Constantinian Claimant Against Valens

This bronze AE3 nummus represents Procopius, a short-lived eastern usurper who used family connections and coinage to challenge Emperor Valens.

Coin Details

• Ruler: Procopius
• Reign and issue period: AD 365–366
• Empire/region: Eastern Roman Empire
• Denomination: Nummus; AE3 is a modern size classification
• Composition: AE (bronze or copper alloy)
• NGC grade: Ch F — Choice Fine
• Sheldon-scale equivalent: 15
• Quantity supplied: One encapsulated coin

The Sheldon-scale number is an equivalent associated with the stated ancient-coin grade; it is not a separate numerical grade assigned to the coin.

Procopius — The Usurpation of AD 365–366

Procopius was related to Emperor Julian and had served in Julian’s Persian campaign. After a period in hiding, he emerged at Constantinople in September AD 365 and persuaded passing troops to proclaim him emperor while Valens was campaigning in the East.

His regime emphasized its connection to the Constantinian dynasty, but Valens recovered and Procopius’s forces suffered defections. Captured after defeat near Nacolia in May AD 366, Procopius was executed and his brief challenge came to an end.

What the Coin Tells Us

AE3 is a modern numismatic size category rather than an ancient denomination written on the coin. It is used to classify medium-small late Roman bronze issues whose exact contemporary accounting names are uncertain.

Procopius needed coinage quickly to present himself as a legitimate emperor. His issues therefore served as portable political statements, carrying his portrait, name and dynastic imagery through the regions that recognized his authority.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one late Roman bronze coin of Procopius in an NGC Ancients holder, graded Ch F (Choice Fine). A specific mint, issue year, reverse design, inscription, weight or diameter is not promised unless expressly stated above.

Stock-photo notice: The photographs are representative of the product offering. The coin supplied may differ from the pictured example in portrait style, reverse design, inscriptions, centering, toning, surface appearance and other individual characteristics while remaining within the stated coin type and any expressly stated grade.