Roman Bronze AE3 Of Procopius (AD 365–366) NGC

This NGC-certified bronze AE3 coin was issued under Procopius, a short-lived usurper who challenged the authority of Emperor Valens in AD 365–366. A relative of the former Emperor Julian, Procopius leveraged his noble lineage and military connections to declare himself emperor in Constantinople, during a time of political instability in the Eastern Roman Empire.

Procopius’ claim to power came after the death of Emperor Jovian and the accession of Valens, who lacked strong popular support. By aligning himself with the memory of Julian and appealing to discontented troops and provincial leaders, Procopius quickly gained control over parts of Thrace and Bithynia. However, his reign was brief. Valens moved decisively against him, and within a year, Procopius was defeated, captured, and executed.

Despite the brevity of his rule, Procopius minted coins to assert his legitimacy—an essential act for any contender to imperial power in the Roman world. His bronze coinage, including the AE3 denomination, typically features his portrait in traditional imperial style and is often paired with military or symbolic reverses promoting strength and authority.

Coins of Procopius are of particular interest to collectors due to their rarity and the dramatic circumstances surrounding their issue. They represent a moment of upheaval during a transitional period in late Roman history.

Encapsulated and authenticated by NGC, this coin is a striking artifact of ambition and rebellion—ideal for collectors of usurpers, late Roman bronze, or coins tied to contested imperial claims.