BALBINUS (238)

"Victoria Augustorum" Balbinus was a member of a wealthy aristocratic family. He served as consul twice and governed various provinces as a governor. In the spring of 238 CE, he was elected emperor alongside Pupienus by the Senate. While Pupienus marched to confront Maximinus, who was besieging Aquileia, the 60-year-old Balbinus focused on organizing aid. In the capital, clashes broke out between the city’s populace and the Praetorian Guard, and Balbinus struggled to restore order. Stability was only achieved upon the victorious return of Pupienus, who secured the submission of Maximinus’ forces.

However, in the summer of 238 CE, during the Capitoline Games, the Praetorian Guard stormed the imperial palace in Rome and killed both emperors. The reign of Balbinus and Pupienus lasted only 99 days.

Denomination: Denarius, Ag