Maximinus Thrax also known as Maximinus I was Roman Emperor reigning from 235 to 238. He was the first soldier who rose through the ranks to become Roman emperor. His reign marked the beginning of a half century of civil war in the empire.

Maximinus was the commander of the Legio IV Italica when Severus Alexander was assassinated by his own troops in 235. The Praetorian Guard then elected Maximinus emperor on 20th March in the year 235. Maximinus was the first emperor who hailed neither from the senatorial class nor from the equestrian class. He spent most of his reign fighting invading tribes along the Danube and the Rhine.

The above shown Silver denarius struck in Rome during his reign. The obverse of a coin depicts the laureate draped and cuirassed bust of Maximinus. The reverse of a coin engraved Maximinus holding sceptre; standard on either side.

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