204-204

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 307-308

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Laureate, cuirassed bust right; seen from front in 3/4 view

rev.- VIRTVS MILITVM; Camp gate with no door; 7 rows of bricks; 4 turrets; TR in ex

RIC VI Tr 758; RSC 707e

16.5mm; 1.5g; half-argenteus

rated R2 in RIC

104-951

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 307-308

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuir bust r

rev.- MARTI PATRI PROPVGNATORI; Helmeted Mars, naked but for chlamys, advancing right, holding spear and shield. S-A in fields, PTR in ex

RIC VI Tr 776

26mm; 6.1g; nummus

rated S in RIC

104-976

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 307-308

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; laureate and cuirassed bust of Constantine right

rev.- PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS; Prince standing facing, head left, in military attire, holding standard in each hand, S—A in fields, PTR in exergue

RIC VI Tr 781

27mm; 6.3g; nummus

This is one of the better Constantine portraits in my collection. Click here to see close-up detail.

104-775

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 307-308

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuir bust right

rev.- MARTI PATRI CONSERVATORI; Mars, helmeted, stg r, leaning on reversed spear, shield resting on ground; S|A in field; PTR in ex

RIC VI Treveri 772a; Fail 080

27mm; 7.9g; nummus

104-954

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Maxentius

Rome, 307

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur bust right

rev.- CONSERVATORES VRB SVAE; Roma seated facing, head left, in hexastyle temple, globe in right hand, scepter in left, wreath in pediment, knobs as acroteria R*Q in exergue

RIC VI Rom 201

27mm; 6.1g; nummus

rated S in RIC

204-107

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Maxentius

Ticinum, 308

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur bust right

rev.- CONSERV VRB SVAE; Roma seated facing, head left, in hexastyle temple, right hand holding globe, left hand holding a scepter; PT in ex

RIC VI Tic 93

27mm; 6.8g; nummus

204-073

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Ticinum, 307-308

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- VIRTVS PERPETVA AVG; Hercules strangling the Nemean Lion; club to lower right; ST

RIC VI Tic 99; Fail 166

25mm; 6.13g; nummus

Listed as R in RIC, RR by Failmezgar

204-162

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Lugdunum, 307-308

obv.- IMP C CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; laureate draped bust right, seen from rear

rev.- CONSTANTINO P AVG B R P NAT; Constantine stg facing, head l., in military dress, r. holding globe, l. leaning on sceptre; PLC in ex

RIC VI Lug 252

28mm; 5.9g; nummus

Rated R in RIC. The reverse legend CONSTANTINO P AVG B(ono) R(ei) P(ublicae) NAT(o), means "To Constantine, prince, Emperor, born for the welfare of the state." This likely commemorates Constantine's birthday on 27 February 308. Constantine would have 27 or 28 for this birthday.

204-316

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Lugdunum, 307-308

obv.- IMP C CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate draped bust right

rev.- MARTI PATRI CONSERVATORI; Mars standing right, holding spear pointing down and leaning on shield; PLC in ex

RIC VI Lug 260 [var]

27mm; 7.6g; nummus

This reverse type is completely uncatalogued for this issue, although it ought to be expected since it is present in both the "N" and CI-HS issues that bracket this PLC issue in RIC. In both of those other issues, it is present as part of a set with the other Mars reverse types that are also present in this issue.

204-314

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Lugdunum, 307-308

obv.- IMP C CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate cuirassed bust right

rev.- MARTI PATR SEMP VICTORI; Mars standing right, head left, holding transverse spear and trophy over shoulder; PLC in ex

RIC VI Lug 263 [var]

25mm; 6.3g; nummus

For Constantine, this is only catalogued for laureate/cuirassed bust, seen from rear; not listed for an ordinary cuirassed bust, seen from front. Catalogued by Bastien as note to Lyon 502 -- this specific coin, cited and illustrated. Extremely rare, and the only example cited in Lyon.

204-161

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Lugdunum, 307-308

obv.- IMP C CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; laureate draped bust right, seen from rear

rev.- SECVRIT PERPET DD NN; Securitas stg. l., leaning l., with transverse sceptre on column, r. raised to head; PLC in ex

RIC VI Lug 278

27mm; 6.3g; nummus

Rated S in RIC, but I suspect it's a bit rarer than that…

104-761

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Lugdunum, 308

obv.- IMP C CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate draped bust right

rev.- GENIO POP ROM; Genius holding patera over altar; CI - HS in fields, PLC in ex

RIC VI Lug 287; Fail 073

27mm; 6.2g; 308-309

A historical bronze dating to marraige of Constantine to Fausta. The CI in the left field stands for Constantine Imperator and declares his new title along with his new father in law. The horizontal HS stands for Heraclius Senior giving honor to his new father in law. The coin is a clear commemoration of Constantines new position in the tetrarchy and his new wife and her family. Rated S in RIC

After about 310, Sol increasingly dominates the coinage from Constantine's western mints. Mars and Genius types were also relatively common, but not as prevalent as Sol.

204-120

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Lugdunum, 309-310

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; Laureate bust right, cuirassed, draped, seen from rear

rev.- SOLI INVIC-TO COMITI; Sol radiate, stg. l., chlamys draped over l. shoulder, r. raised, l. holding up globe. F-T in fields, PLC in ex

RIC VI Lug 310

24mm; 4.2g; nummus

I love the figure of Sol on the reverse; click here for extra close-up view.

104-514

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 310

obv.- IMPCONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Laur Cuir Right

rev.- SOLI INVICTO COMITI; Sol radiate standing left, holding globe in left hand, raised right hand; PLN in ex; T F in fields

RIC VI Lon 121a; Fail 208

24mm; 5.1g; nummus

104-925

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 310-312

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS P AVG; laur cuir bust right

rev.- ADVENTVS AVG; Constantine riding left, on horseback pawing captive, holding spear; * in field, PLN in ex

RIC VI Lon 137 [var]

23mm; 3.9g; nummus

In rough condition, but a scarce variety. Picked up from the ebay juk bin. Unlisted for this obverse legend and reverse type; should be catalogued with 133-137.

104-870

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 310-312

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Laur.,draped and cuirassed bust right

rev.- COMITI AVGG NN; Sol standing left, holding globe and whip. * in field, PLN in ex

RIC VI Lon 153; Fail 186

24mm; 4.2g; nummus

104-948

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 310-312

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuir bust right

rev.- COMITI AVGG NN; Sol standing left, holding globe and whip, * in right field, PLN in exergue

RIC VI Lon 153

23mm; 4.4g; nummus

104-726

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 310-312

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Cuir with spear over right shoulder, shield on left arm, bust facing left

rev.- COMITI AVGG NN; Sol radiate standing left, holding globe and whip

RIC VI Lon 163; Fail 186

23mm; 3.7g; nummus

204-183

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

London, 310-312

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Laureate cuirassed bust right

rev.- CONCORDIA MILIT; Concordia stg. l. holding two standards; * in field; PLN in ex

RIC VI Lon 195

24mm; 4.2g; nummus

104-945

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 310-312

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate, helmeted, cuirassed bust left; spear over right shoulder; shield on left arm

rev.- PRINCIPI IVVENTITVS; Prince stg facing, head left, in military dress, holding standard in each hand; * in field, PLN in ex

RIC VI Lon 217

23mm; 4.4g; nummus

Listed as R in RIC

204-062

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 310-312

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuirassed bust right

rev.- PRINCIPI IVVENTVTVTIS; Prince standing right, in military dress, holding spear and globe, star on right, PLN in ex

RIC VI Lon 222

23mm; 4.5g; nummus

104-753

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 310-312

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuir bust right

rev.- SPES REIPVBL; Emperor on horse prancing left, captive on ground

RIC VI Lon 241; Fail 209

22mm; 4.35g; nummus

rated R in RIC

104-842

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 310-313

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS AVG; laur cuir dr bust right

rev.- MARTI CONSERVATORI; Helmeted Mars, leaning on reversed spear and shield; T|F in fields, PTR in ex

RIC VI Tr 860; Fail 204

23mm; 4.5g; nummus

Rated S in RIC

104-952

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 310-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; Laureate, cuirassed bust right

rev.- MARTI CONSERVATORI; Mars, helmeted, in military dress, standing facing, head right, reversed spear in right hand, left hand resting on shield ; T | F across fields; PTR in ex

RIC VI Tr 862

24mm; 4.7g; nummus

104-438

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 310-313

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS AVG;

rev.- SOLI INVICTO COMITI; Sol standing left holding globe, PTR in ex, T F in fields

RIC VI Tr 870; Fail 208

23mm; 4.5g; nummus

104-875

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 310-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuir bust right

rev.- MARTI CONSERVATORI; cuirassed bust of young Mars right, wearing ornate pseudo-Corinthian helmet

RIC VI Tr 884; Fail 204a

25mm; 5.0g; nummus

104-526

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 310-313

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINUS P AUG;

rev.- SOLI INVICTO COMITI; bust of Sol right

RIC VI Tr 889; Fail 208a, Sear 3867

21mm; 4.8g; nummus

104-817

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 310-315

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS AVG;

rev.- MARTI CONSERVATORI; T|F in field; PTR in ex

RIC VI 859; Fail 204

22mm; g; nummus

also RIC VII Tr 50

The eastern emperors also struck coins recognizing Constantine as augustus in this period. While Galerius tended to stick with more traditional types, Maximinus II (like Constantine) was developing a different catalog of types.

204-156

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Maximinus II

Alexandria, 308-310

obv.- FL VAL CONSTANTINVS AVG; Laureate bust right

rev.- GENIO IMPERATORIS; K-Δ-P in fields, ALE in ex

RIC VI Ale 108

26.5mm; 6.0g; nummus

204-154

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Maximinus II

Cyzicus, 311

obv.- IMP C FL VAL CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- GENIO AVGVSTI CMH; Genius standing left, holding patera and cornucopia; MKV in ex

RIC VI Cyz 77b

23mm; 7.9g; nummus

This is another deeply struck coin from fresh dies. This is a wonderfully satisfying coin to hold in hand: thick and heavy, perfectly centered, with a smooth, glossy patina. A photograph doesn't really get it done.

104-907

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Maximinus II

Nicomedia, 311

obv.- IMP C FL VAL CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate / draped bust right

rev.- GENIO AVGVSTI CMH; Genius standing left, holding patera and cornucopia; S in field, SMN in ex

RIC VI Nic 66d [var]

21mm; 3.3g; nummus

The GENIO AVGVSTI follii from Group V (310-311 AD, of which RIC 66 is a part) have -CMH ligature in reverse legend, with the officina mark in ex instead of in the field. The Group VI GENIO AVGVSTI follii have officina mark in field, no ligature in the reverse legend, and altar / eagle in other field. So this is a complete hybrid: the Group V reverse design & ligature, but struck with the Group VI mint marks.

104-656

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Maximinus II

Nicomedia, 311

obv.- IMP C FL VAL CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate / draped bust right

rev.- VIRTVTI EXERCITVS; Mars advancing right, holding spear, shield, and trophy; B in field; SMN in ex

RIC VI Nic 70c [sic]; Fail 212

22mm; 4.5g; nummus

This type only listed for Licinius (70a) and Maximinus (70b), not Constantine, which would be expected at 70c.

204-108

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Maximinus II

Nicomedia, 312

obv.- IMP C FL VAL CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; laur bust right

rev.- HERCVLI VICTORI; Hercules standing right, resting hand on hip and holding club with lion skin; * Δ in field; SMN in ex

RIC VI Nic [75c]; Fail 201

21mm; 4.9g; nummus

Unlisted in RIC for Constantine (or Licinius, for that matter), matches RIC 75 for Maximinus; if it were cataloged, it would be RIC 75c.

Tough to get a good picture of this coin because where the silvering has worn off, the metal is patinated pure black, but it is actually quite nice with a terrific portrait and a wonderfully detailed Hercules.

204-022

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Licinius I

Siscia, 311

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- GENIO AVGVSTI; Genius stg left, modius on head, holding patera and cornucopia; crescent-Γ in fields, SIS in ex

RIC VI Sis 209

25mm; 7.3g; nummus

104-801

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Maximinus II

Antioch, 312

obv.- IMP C FL VAL CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur bust right

rev.- SOLI INVICTO; Sol, radiate, in long robe, r hand raised, left hand holding head of Serapis; epsilon-I in left field, * in right; ANT in ex

RIC VI Ant 167c; Fail 208d

21mm; 4.2g; nummus

listed S in RIC

204-027

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Maximinus II

Alexandria, 312

obv.- FL VALER CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- GENIO AVGVSTI; Genius standing left, holding head of Serapis and cornucopiae; N-A in fields, ALE•t in ex

RIC VI Ale 158 [var]

21mm; 4.9g; nummus

Legends match RIC 158 (listed as R in RIC), but officina A is not recorded. RIC notes that "Off. and B are not evidenced" at all for these entire groups of nummi. The dot following the mint mark is also not recorded for this group, but it is noted for other groups.

204-184

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Maximinus II

Alexandria, 312-313

obv.- FL VALER CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- GENIO AVGVSTI; Genius standing left holding head of Serapis and cornucopiae, modius on head, */N/palm branch in field, A in right field, ALE in ex

RIC VI Ale 161

21mm; 5.3g; nummus

Rated S in RIC

204-145

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Aquileia, 312-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Laureate, cuirassed bust right

rev.- SOL INVICTO COMITI; Sol standing left, raising hand and holding globe; seated captive to left

RIC VI Aq 144

22mm; 3.8g; nummus

This was struck shortly after Constantine assumed control of the mint in his war with Maxentius. At this time, Sol was recognized on Constantine's coins as his patron deity; the addition of the captive at Sol's feet would have been an unmistakeable allusion to his victory over Maxentius and the new political order in Aquileia.

204-038

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

London, 312-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuirassed bust right

rev.- FELICITAS AVGG NN; Roma seated left, holding branch and globe, * on left, PLN in ex

RIC VI Lon 246

23mm; 4.0g; nummus

listed as R in RIC. Ex. Dr. J. S. Vogelaar Collection

204-063

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 312-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuirassed bust right

rev.- MARTI CONSERVATORI; Mars standing right, holding long spear & shield, star in left field, PLN in exergue

RIC VI Lon 254

21mm; 4.9g; nummus

104-768

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 312-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Laur cuir bust right

rev.- PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS; Prince standing right in military dress, holding transverse spear and holding globe; * in field; PLN in ex

RIC VI Lon 265; Fail 207c

24mm; 4.1g; nummus

204-034

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 312-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuirassed bust right

rev.- ROMAE AETER AVGG; Roma seated left, holding branch and globe, star on left, PLN in ex

RIC VI Lon 269

22mm; 4.3g; nummus

listed as R in RIC. Ex. Dr. J. S. Vogelaar Collection

204-035

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 312-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuirassed bust right

rev.- SECVRITAS AVGG; Securitas standing facing, head left, right hand on head, legs crossed, leaning on column, star on left, PLN in ex

RIC VI Lon 277

23mm; 3.5g; nummus

listed as R in RIC. Ex. Dr. J. S. Vogelaar Collection

104-946

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Constantine I nummus. $30—

—struck by Constantine I

Londinium, 312-313

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; laureate draped cuir bust right

rev.- SOLI INVICTO COMITI; Sol standing left, head radiate, chlamys over left shoulder, raising right hand, globe in left, PLN in exergue, * in field left

RIC VI Lon 280

23mm; 2.8g; nummus

Rich old collection patina. Ex-Stack's (July 2007 Coin Galleries Sale, lot 163)

104-965

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Rome, 312-313

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate cuirassed bust right

rev.- GENIO POPVLI ROMANI; Genius stg left, holding patera and cornucopia; RS in ex

RIC VI Rom 294a

23mm; 4.6g; nummus

One of the first things Constantine did when he captured Rome from Maxentius was issue his own coins, especially the GENIO standard. I like the cartoon-like depiction of Genius on this coin, I wish the face was better struck.

204-117

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Rome, 312-313

obv.- FL VAL CONSTANTINVS AVG; laureate and draped bust, seen from rear

rev.- PACI PERPET; Pax stg. facing, head l., r. holding branch, l. standard in left field- XII in exergue- RT

RIC VI Rom 355

17mm; 2.3g; half-nummus

104-955

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Rome, 312-313

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust r.

rev.- SPQR OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Legionary eagle between two Vexilla, the left surmounted by a hand and the right wreath; RP in ex

RIC VI Rom 350a

23mm; 4.7g; nummus

204-143

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Ostia, 312-313

obv.- IMP C CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; Laureate cuirassed bust right

rev.- SPQR OPTIMO PRINCIPI; legionary eagle between two vexilla, the left surmounted by a hand, the right by a wreath, MOSTP in exergue

RIC VI Ost 94

22mm; 4.4g; nummus

204-142

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Rome, 313

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Laureate draped cuirassed bust right

rev.- MARTI CONSERVATORI; Mars standing right, right arm resting on inverted spear, left on shield, R/F in fields; RP in ex

RIC VII Rom 6

21mm; 3.1g; nummus

Listed R3 in RIC

104-994

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Rome, 317-318

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; laureate draped cuirassed bust right

rev.- SOLI INVICTO COMITI; Sol standing left, head radiate, chlamys over left shoulder, raising right hand, globe in left, RT in exergue, wreath in field

RIC VII Rom 97

22mm; 3.8g; nummus

204-280

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Ticinum, 312-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Laureate cuirassed bust right

rev.- GENIO POPVLI ROMANI; Genius standing l, holding patera and cornucopiae; TT in ex

RIC VI Tic 117

mm; g; nummus

Rated S in RIC

104-958

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Ticinum, 312-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuir bust right

rev.- MARTI CONSERVATORI; Mars right holding spear and shield; ST in ex

RIC VI Tic 124a

23mm; 4.8g; nummus

Rated S in RIC

204-215

(click image to see larger picture)

Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Ticinum, 312-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate, cuirassed bust right

rev.- MARTI CONSERVATORI; Facing Mars holding spear and shield; PT in ex

RIC VI Tic 124a

23mm; 4.7g; nummus

Rated S in RIC. Much scarcer with a facing figure of Mars, most examples have Mars facing right, although the facing variety is noted in RIC.

104-803

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Ticinum, 312-313

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laur cuir bust right

rev.- SOLI INVICTO COMITI; Sol stg left, r hand raised, l holding globe; PT in ex

RIC VI Tic 128; RIC VII Tic 3; Fail 208

21mm; 3.9g; nummus

Rated S

While Constantine was absorbing the territory conquered from Maxentius, Licinius rapidly took control over the eastern half of the empire. First, Licinius took over Galerius' European territory (and mints) in 311 when Galerius died. Then, in 313, he defeated Maximinus II and took over the rest of the eastern empire. While Constantine's coinage featured Sol and Mars, Licinius' bronze coinage featured Jupiter almost exclusively, whether struck in his name or Constantine's.

104-659

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Maximinus II

Cyzicus, 311

obv.- FL VAL CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- IOVI CONSERVATORI AVGG; Jupiter stg legt, holding globe and sceptre; eagle holding wreath at feet; MKV-Γ in ex

RIC VI Cyz 80; Fail 202c

24mm; 6.5g; nummus

Unusually heavy for a "Iovi Conservatori" nummus. This was struck just before the size of the nummus was sharply reduced throughout all of the eastern mints; at 6.5 grams, this is about as heavy a Jupiter nummus as you're likely to see, the overwhelming majority of them are ~3 grams or less.

104-959

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Heraclea, 312

obv.- IMP C FL VAL CONSTANTINVS PF INV AVG; laur bust right

rev.- IOVI CONSERVATORI AVGG; Jupiter standing facing, head left, chlamys hanging from left shoulder, holding Victory on globe, and leaning on sceptre; wreath - Δ in field; SMHT in ex

RIC VI Her 72

24mm; 4.5g; nummus

Listed as S in RIC

104-535

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Licinius I

Thessalonica, 312

obv.- CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; Laureate head right

rev.- IOVI CONSERVATORI; Jupiter standing facing, head left, naked but for chlamys over left shoulder, globe in right hand, scepter in left hand. Wreath in left field, B in right; SMTS in ex

RIC VI Thes 50b; Fail 202a

24mm; 5.24g; nummus

204-150

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Licinius I

Thessalonica, 312-313

obv.- IMP C CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust rt

rev.- IOVI CONSERVATORI AVGG NN; Jupiter standing left, holding Victory and a sceptre, eagle at his feet, •TS•E• in ex

RIC VI Thes 61b

23mm; 3.7g; nummus

This is a curious obverse legend. The addition of the AVGG NN to the legend would seem to indicate that there were now two Augusti, presumably Licinius and Constantine; yet this type was also struck in the name of Maximinus II, in addition to the other two.

204-147

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Licinius I

Siscia, 313-315

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Laureate bust left

rev.- IOVI CONSERVATORI; Jupiter standing left, holding Victory on globe and sceptre; eagle at feet; SIS in ex

RIC VII Sis 5

21mm; 3.1g; nummus

Detailed figure of Jupiter.

204-185

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Licinius I

Alexandria, 313-314

obv.- FL VALER CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- GENIO POPVLI ROMANI; Genius standing left holding head of Serapis and cornucopiae, modius on head, N/palm branch in field, Γ-wreath in right field, ALE in ex

RIC VII Ale 2

21mm; 5.3g; nummus

Rated R4-R5 in RIC. This coin was struck shortly after Licinius defeated Maximinus in 313. Upon the defeat of Maximinus, all of the mints formerly under the control of Maximinus began striking "Iovi Conservatori" types like Licinius' other mints and ceased production of Maximinus types. For some reason, the Alexandria mint didn't follow this pattern and continued striking the "Genius holding head of Serapis" type from Maximinus. Exceptionally, the mint also reverted to the old "Genio Populi Romani" legend, in place of the "Genio Augusti" legend that had been used with this reverse type under Maximinus. Perhaps this was an attempt to project a message of tradition and continuity during this period of political change?

204-065

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Licinius I

Alexandria, 315

obv.- IMP C FL VAL CONSTANTINVS P F AVG; Laureate head right

rev.- IOVI CONSERVATORI AVGG; Jupiter standing facing, head left, naked but for chlamys over left shoulder, Victory on globe in right hand, scepter in left. Eagle holding wreath in left field; wreath-Z-N in right field, ALE in ex

RIC VII Ale 7

20mm; 3.0g; nummus

204-153

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Licinius I

Nicomedia, 317-320

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS AVG; Laureate, draped bust left, holding mappa in left hand, globe and sceptre in right

rev.- IOVI CONSERVATORI AVGG; Jupiter standing left, chlamys across left shoulder, holding Victory on globe and leaning on eagle-tipped sceptre, palm to left, Z to right, SMN in ex.

RIC VII Nic 23

20mm; 3.3g; nummus

Around 319 Constantine reformed his coinage again and introduced a new reverse design, one with two winged Victories flanking an altar. The reverse inscription VICTORIA LAETAE PRINC PERP translates as "Joyous victory to the eternal prince." In a move indicative of how Constantine was consolidating, centralizing, and systematizing his control of the empire and its bureaucracy, this design was the only bronze coin type struck throughout his domain, at every mint.

The other reason this type is significant is because it marks the beginning of the end of pagan coinage, and so is a significant milestone on the road to the empire's impending conversion to Christianity. With a few minor exceptions, the Mars and Sol coins of the previous period were the last pagan deities to appear on Roman coins. The mints under Licinius' control continued to strike Licinius' Jupiter motif for few more years, but only until they came under Constantine's control.

204-283

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 318-319

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS AVG; cuirassed bust left with high-crested helmet; spear over left shoulder

rev.- VICTORIAE LAETAE PRINC PERP; Two Victories placing shield inscribed VOT PR on altar; PTR in ex

RIC VII Tr 208a

17mm; 2.84g; nummus

204-109

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Ticinum, 318-319

obv.- IMP CONSTANTINVS PF AVG; Helmeted, laureate cuirassed bust right

rev.- VICTORIAE LAETAE PRINC PERP; Two Victories placing Shield inscribed VOT/PR on altar with cross. TT in ex

RIC VII Tic 86

19mm; 3.8g; nummus

204-066

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Siscia, 319

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; Helmeted, cuirassed bust left with shield and spear

rev.- VICT LAETAE PRINC PERP; Two Victories placing Shield inscribed VOT/PR on altar. •ASIS• in ex

RIC VII Sis 84

19mm; 3.8g; nummus

The exception to the above pattern is Thessalonica, where Constantine most likely resided after his victory over Licinius in 317. The coin shown here is a singular type, struck only at Thessalonica for a single issue, showing Sol as the patron deity of the army. This is probably the last time Sol appeared on a Roman coin.

204-123

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Thessalonica, 319

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- VIRT EXERC; Sol stg. in the middle of what RIC describes as a Roman camp; •TS•Γ• in ex.

RIC VII Thes 66

19mm; 2.5g; nummus

Holed in antiquity, most likely to be worn around the neck as a pendant by a soldier in one of Constantine's legions. Listed as R5 in RIC

Around this time Constantine also issued a series of small fractional bronzes designed to honor his deceased and deified forebears, and thereby emphasize his own divine descent—his father, Constantius; his father-in-law, Maximianus; and, interestingly, the 3rd-century emperor Claudius II Gothicus, from whom Constantine also claimed descent, even though there is no real evidence to support this. Claudius II was renowned for a tremendous victory over the Goths (hence his title), a victory which took place close to Constantine's birthplace and near the time of his birth. Presumably this event was still remembered and Constantine wanted to capture some of the glow.

204-082

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Constantius I commem

—struck by Constantine I

Siscia, 317-318

obv.- DIVO CONSTANTIO PIO PRINCIPI; Laureate veiled bust right

rev.- REQVIES OPTIMORVM MERITORVM; Emperor seated left on curule chair, raising right hand, holding sceptre; SIS in ex

RIC VII Sis 42

16mm; 1.5g; half-nummus

104-516

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Claudius II (Gothicus) commem

—struck by Constantine I

Thessalonica, 317-318

obv.- DIVO CLAVDIO OPTIMO IMP; veiled laureate bust r

rev.- REQVIES OPTIMORVM MERITORVM; Claudius seated l. on curule chair, TS [epsilon] in ex

RIC VII Thes 26; Fail 332; Sear-3232 var;

17mm; 1.6g; half-nummus

Rare. In this special issue of fractional coins Constantine I honors his father Constantius I, his father-in-law Maximian Herculius, and, on our coin, also his alleged ancestor Claudius Gothicus

104-533

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Constantius I commem

—struck by Constantine I

Rome, 317-318

obv.- DIVO CONSTANTIO PIO PRINC; Constantius, laureate and veiled bust right

rev.- MEMORIAE ATERNAE; eagle standing right, looking left; RP in ex

RIC VII Rom 111; Fail 333

17mm; 1.8g; half-nummus

Struck by Constantine to commemorate his deceased and now-deified father. Part of a series that also honored his purported ancestor, Claudius II Gothicus, and his father-in-law, Maximianus, to emphasize to the populace Constantine's illustrious ancestry.

204-095

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Maximianus commem

—struck by Constantine I

Rome, 317-318

obv.- DIVO MAXIMIANO SEN FORT IMP; Maximianus, laureate and veiled bust right

rev.- REQVIES OPTIM-ORVM MERITORVM; Emperor sitting on curule chair holding sceptre

RIC VII Rom 104; Fail 332

21mm; 3.0 g; nummus

much larger flan than expected for this issue; should be about 18mm. See http://www.oudgeld.com/webbib/conscomm.htm for more info about this coin (article by Gert Boersema, originally from Celator).

Around 320–321 Constantine again introduced a new set of reverse types for all the mints. Both types were based on more or less traditional motifs that had often been used previously on Roman coins.

• One design, VIRTVS EXERCITVS, proclaimed the "Valor of the army." It showed several bound captives under a banner. The banner usually had a votive legend.
• The second design was a traditional votive legend surrounded by a wreath.

Votive coins were supposed to commemorate the anniversary of an emperor's reign (5 years, 10 years, 20 years, etc.) and also convey the emperor's promise to serve faithfully for another 5–10–20 years, or whatever.

Both designs were struck for both emperors and all the caesars, but again there was considerable variation in bust type and the specific votive formula, depending on which augustus/caesar was the subject and when the coin was struck. For example, Constantine in 321 often expressed VOT XX, commemorating 15 years in power and expressing vows for another 5. On these coins, for the first time Constantine is styled MAX AVG. Licinius' objections, if any, are not recorded.

204-139

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Lugdunum, 321

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; Laureate cuirassed bust right

rev.- VIRTVS EXERCIT; Vexillum with banner inscribed VOT / XX between two captives seated on ground C | R across fields; PLG in ex

RIC VII Lug 115

20mm; 3.9g; nummus

204-219

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Rome, 321

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; Laureate bust right

rev.- D N CONSTANTINI MAX AVG; Legend surrounding laurel wreath, enclosing VOT / • / XX RQ in ex

RIC VII Rom 237

19mm; 3.03g; nummus

In 321 the VIRTVS EXERCIT types were retired in favor of a new reverse motif, this time with the legend BEATA TRANQVILLITAS, celebrating the "Blessed peace" that seemed to exist in 321, with the final war with Licinius still several years away. These were only struck at Londinium, Lugdunum, and Treveri, so perhaps they refer specifically to the peaceful state of the Rhine/German frontier. A globe rests on an altar which typically has a votive inscription, expressing the responsibility of the emperor for the world's security; above, three stars watch over the globe, probably representing Constantine and his two sons who were caesars at this time.

During this period, the other mints continued striking regular votive coins.

Despite their limited scope, these types were issued with a remarkably large variety of bust types and reverse details. Dieter Alten and Carl-Friedrich Zschucke catalog almost 100 bust types from Treveri alone in their exhaustive “Die Römische münzserie Beata Tranquillitas in der prägestätte Trier 321–323” [2004], and similar variety was produced from the other mints.

204-110

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

London, 323-324

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AG; Helmeted, cuirassed bust left

rev.- BEAT TRANQLITAS; Globe on altar inscribed VOT/IS/XX in three lines; above, three stars; PLON in ex

RIC VII Lon 269

21mm; 3.0g; nummus

Note from seller: "The helmets in this issue normally show some floral design and some dots. This helmet is, to my knowledge, unique in showing a detailed starry sky. The seven dots form the well-known constellation of the Pleiades (compare the inset image of the Pleiades with the red-marked dots on the helmet), with the Moon crescent in the lower middle. The identity of the three big stars is unknown, perhaps they signify three planets. Detailed astronomical depictions are not uncommon on Roman coins, but this may be the only one from the London mint."

204-140

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Trier, 323-324

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; Laureate bust of Constantine right, draped in consular mantle and holding eagle-tipped scepter

rev.- BEATA TRANQVILLITAS; Altar inscribed VO / TIS / XX, surmounted by globe with plain vertical lines and diagonals between horizontal lines, three stars above; PTR• in ex

RIC VII Tr 342

19mm; 3.4g; nummus

The silvering on the coin makes it tough to photograph some of the wonderful portrait detail.

204-212

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Constantine II caesar

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 323

obv.- CONSTANTINVS IVN NOB C; Laureate half-length bust right, dressed as the High Priest of Sol; scepter in right hand, globe in left surmounted by radiate Sol standing facing, nude but for chlamys over left shoulder, right hand raise.

rev.- BEATA TRANQVILLITAS; Globe set on altar inscribed VO / TIS / XX, three stars above; . STR crescent in exergue

RIC VII Tr 409 [var]

20mm; 3.2g; nummus

Virtually unknown bust type that is not listed in RIC. Footnotes on RIC VII, p.200, mention two examples of RIC 409 with a similar, Sol-on-globe bust type. This example is unmistakeably Sol.

However, Alten and Zschucke do discuss this bust type [18r] specifically in their “Die Römische münzserie Beata Tranquillitas” :

Note to bust 18r:
This bust is only for Constantine II. The Caesar is wearing the garb of the chief priest of the Sol-cult. This is not the usual consular mantle, which is laid in folds over the arm, but a robe with sleeves. This is clear from the hand holding the scepter which is quite visible standing out from the left sleeve.

This portrayal suggests that at this time, Constantine I transferred the office of High Priest of the Sol-cult for political reasons to his second son. The Augustus wanted to demonstrate with this gesture his religious neutrality and gain the good graces of the Christian population, a growing portion of his empire.

(my translation, from original German text) They catalog this as no. 143, with maybe a dozen examples known. The example pictured in their book is neither an obverse nor reverse die match, so evidently enough of these were minted to warrant at least two dies. This is the only bust type—out of nearly 100 different varieties—in which the ruler is shown dressed as High Priest..

204-141

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Arelate, 321

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; Laureate bust right

rev.- DN CONSTANTINI MAX AVG; VOT XX in wreath, P-crescent-A in ex

RIC VII Arl 233

19mm; 3.6g; nummus

Deeply struck from fresh dies.

204-144

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Ticinum, 322-325

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; Laureate head right

rev.- D N CONSTANTINI MAX AVG; Legend surrounding wreath terminating in large jewel, enclosing VOT / • / X X / crescent, TT in exergue

RIC VII Tic 167

18mm; 3.0g; nummus

In 322, Constantine went to war to combat the Sarmatians on the Danube frontier, and won a major victory. This was commemorated with a new bronze coin design struck throughout his territory in 323/324, replacing the previous TRANQVILLITAS coins.

204-148

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Sirmium, 324-325

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; Laureate bust right

rev.- SARMATIA DEVICTA; Victory advancing right, SIRM in exergue

RIC VII Sirm 48

19mm; 3.1g; nummus

Commemorates Constantine’s victory over the Sarmatians in AD 322. One of my favorite portraits, with great reverse detail.

204-198

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 324-325

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; Laureate bust right

rev.- SARMATIA DEVICTA; Victory advancing right, STR-crescent in exergue

RIC VII Tr 435

mm; g; nummus

204-151

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Heraclea, 327-329

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AG; Diademed head right, looking upward with "eyes to heaven" gaze

rev.- D N CONSTANTINI MAX AVG; Legend surrounding laurel wreath terminating in large jewel and enclosing VOT / • / XXX • SMHB in ex

RIC VII Her 92

19mm; 3.2g; nummus

104-960

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Heraclea, 326

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; laur bust right (regular bust, not "eyes to heaven.")

rev.- DN CONSTANTINI MAX AVG; laurel wreath, VOT XXX in two lines within.; SMH-Γ in ex

RIC VII Her 82

19mm; 3.0g; nummus

204-131

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Constantine I augustus nummus.

—struck by Constantine I

Trier, 324-325

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- PROVIDENTIAE AVGG; Campgate with six rows, two turrets, no doors, star above; PTR in exergue

RIC VII Tr 449

18mm; 3.4g; nummus

Sharply struck portrait in high relief, unusually so for this era.

204-155

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Antioch, 324-325

obv.- Laureate bust facing right; no legend

rev.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; wreath and below legend ; SMANTΔ in ex, dot below

RIC VII Ant 57; Fail 335

17mm; 2.2g; nummus

Listed as R5 in RIC, which means that at the time of its publication, the authors knew of only one example (in the collection at Oxford University). Obviously more have turned up since then, but it is still scarce. Antioch coins from this era often have much nicer style than other mints; this is a wonderful Constantine portrait from this period.

204-253

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Rome, 326

obv.- [none]; laureated bust right - no legend

rev.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; wreath with legend below; SMRS in ex

RIC VII Rom 281; Fail 335

18mm; 2.4g; nummus

204-266

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Arelate, 325-326

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- VIRTVS AVGG; Campgate (5 layers) with four turrets and open doors, star above; in ex.: PA-crescent-RL

RIC VII Arl 291

18mm; 3.0g; nummus

204-203

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Rome, 324-325

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- PROVIDENTIAE AVGG; campgate (8 layers) with two turrets, star above; in ex.: RP

RIC VII Rom 264

19mm; 4.0g; nummus

204-199

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Thessalonica, 326-328

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; laureate "heroic"-style bust right

rev.- PROVIDENTIAE AVGG; Camp gate with two turrets and star above; • in right field; SMTSE in ex

RIC VII Thess 154

20mm; 3.6g; nummus

Unusual "heroic"-style bust. Evidently Constantine was resident in or around Thessalonica at this time, following his decisive victory over Licinius in their final civil war; its not surprising that a local celator might try to portray Constantine in such a guise at this time.

204-218

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Cyzicus, 324-325

obv.- CONSTANTINVS AVG; laureate bust right

rev.- PROVIDENTIAE AVGG; campgate (6 layers) with two turrets, star above; in ex.: SMKΓ

RIC VII Cyz 24

19mm; 2.8g; nummus

Remarkably thick silver coating, just a little bit worn off the high points.

Shortly after his defeat of Licinius, Constantine commenced the rebuilding of Byzantium as his new capital in the east, Constantinople, capping his reign. In 326, a mint was officially opened at Constantinople.

As you might imagine, this was accompanied by a new set of coin types. Four new types were introduced that, collectively, represented the latest war and victory over Licinius. These were replaced in 327 by a single new type with CONSTANTINIANA DAFNE legend ("Constantinian Victory") that was struck for the next three years.

These new types were only struck at Constantinople. The other mints continued striking the campgate coins.

104-811

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Constantinople, 327

obv.- CONSTANTINVS MAX AVG; laur bust right

rev.- GLORIA EXERCITVS; Emperor stg left, looking right, holding reversed spear and leaning on shield; Γ in foeld, CONS in ex

RIC VII Cons 16; Fail 348

19mm; 3.5g; AE3

rated r3 in RIC, S in Failmezgar

104-490

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Constantinople, 328

obv.- CONSTANTINVS MAX AVG; Diademed bust right

rev.- LIBERTAS PVBLICA; Victory standing on galley holding 2 wreaths; in ex, CONS

RIC VII Con 25; Fail 350

19mm; g; nummus / AE3

The galley on the reverse commemorates the great naval victory won by Constantine's son Crispus that was a key battle in Constantine's war with Licinius, recently concluded in 324, that left Constantine in sole control of the empire.

204-152

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Constantinople, 327-328

obv.- CONSTANTINVS MAX AVG; Rosette-diademed, draped, cuirassed bust r.

rev.- CONSTANTINIANA DAFNE; Victory seated l. on cippus, palm-branch in each hand, looking r.; trophy in front, at the foot of which kneeling captive turning head, spurned by Victory

RIC VII Con 35

20mm; 3.5g; nummus

Very well-struck reverse with super details; click here to see more.

In 330, the new capital of Constantinople was officially dedicated. At the same time—surprise!—the coinage was reformed.

• The campgate reverse was replaced as the standard bronze coin type by GLORIA EXERCITVS, with two soldiers holding standards; like the campgate, it was a generic type honoring the army.
• Two new types were introduced, one for each of the capitals. Instead of imperial portraits on the obverse, each had a personification of either Rome or Constantinople.

These coins were struck throughout the empire by all the mints, until Constantine's death.

In addition, several small commemorative half-denominations were struck in Constantinople. Interestingly, these each feature a bust of Genius on the obverse, the last time Genius would appear on a Roman coin, bringing the coinage types full circle from the first coins Constantine struck during the Tetrarchic era in 306.

104-961

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Heraclea, 330-333

obv.- CONSTANTINVS MAX AVG; Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust r

rev.- GLORIA EXERCITVS; Soldiers flanking two standards

RIC VII Her 121

18mm; 2.4g; nummus

104-541

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Nicomedia, 330-335

obv.- CONSTANTINVS MAX AVG; Diademed draped cuir bust right

rev.- GLORIA EXERCITVS; Two soldiers on either side of two standards; SMNA in ex

RIC VII Nic 188; Fail 365

18mm; 3.06g; nummus

Interesting, vivid portrait style for this period.

204-180

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Constantinopolis commemorative

—struck by Constantine I

Treveri, 332-333

obv.- CONSTANTINOPOLIS; Helmeted bust representing Constantinopolis, with reversed spear, helmet with pearl diadem, wearing imperial cloak

rev.- [no legend]; Victory standing left on prow, holding spear and shield, TR•S in ex

RIC VII Tr 548

17mm; 2.6g; nummus

104-102

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VRBS ROMA commemorative

—struck by Constantine I

Siscia, 334-335 AD

obv.- VRBS ROMA; bust of Roma; her crested helmeted bust left wearing imperial mantle

rev.-Female wolf standing left, her head back, suckling Romulus and Remus, two stars above; •ΓSIS • in ex

RIC VII Sis 240

17mm; 2.3g; Bronze

104-796

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Constantinople, 330

obv.- POP ROMANVS; draped bust of Genius left, cornucopiae on shoulder

rev.- Milvian Bridge over river; CONS/Γ

RIC VIII Cons 21; Fail 367

15mm; 1.3g; AE4

Commemorative issue struck in celebration of the foundation of Constantinople, 330 AD.

104-481

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Constantine I augustus

—struck by Constantine I

Constantinople, circa 330

obv.- POP ROMANVS; laureate and draped bust of Genius(?) left, holding cornucopiae on shoulder

rev.- Star of eight rays within wreath; in ex, CONSI (officina 10)

RIC VIII Con 22; Fail 367

14mm; 1.1g; half-nummus

Commemorative coin, struck to celebrate the city's official rededication in 330. Concerning this issue, RIC notes that the "weight and alloy suggest that they date in fact from the early 330s."

In 337 Constantine died a natural death, a relative rarity for a Roman emperor. On his deathbed he was baptized, officially becoming a Christian and bequeathing one last legacy to the empire. His sons struck a series of commemorative coins after his death, in which he was deified—kind of, in a left-handed sort of way.

104-844

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Constantine I commem

—struck by Constantius II

Antioch, 337-340

obv.- DN CONSTANTINVS PF AVGG; veiled bust right

rev.- Deified Constantine driving quadriga right, hand of God reaching down from above; SMANA in ex

RIC VII Ant 37

16mm; 1.7g; AE4

104-911

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Constantine I commem

—struck by Constantius II

Antioch, 337-340

obv.- CONSTANTINVS PT AVGG; veiled bust right

rev.- IVST VEN MEM; Aequitas in long dress standing facing, head turned l., holding scales in her r. hand; SMANH in ex

RIC VIII Ant 64; Fail 390

15mm; 1.5g; AE4

104-876

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Constantine I commem

—struck by Constantius II

Nicomedia, 347-348

obv.- DN CONSTANTINVS PT AVGG; Veiled Constantine I right

rev.- VN MR; Constantine, veiled, standing right; SMNZ in ex

Fail 400

16mm; 1.5g; AE4

204-243

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Constantine I commem

—struck by Constantine II

Arelate, 337

obv.- DIVO CONSTANTINO P; Veiled bust right

rev.- AETERNA PIETAS; Emperor in military dress, standing r., holding spear and globe; in field r., X; in exergue, PCONST

RIC VIII Arle 17; LRBC 429

15mm; 1.9g; nummus

325 -- Oration to the Assembly of Saints delivered in Antioch -- most extensive surviving statement by any emporeror between Marcus Aurelius and Julian. desire for imperial unity

Taken to Diocletian's court at Nicomedia at a very young age; since DIocletian came to power in 284, this would have made Constantine about 12.

Accompanied Diocletian in campaign against Domitius Domitianus as member of Diocletian's bodyguard.

Accompanied Galerius in campaign against Persians (297-298), probably going to conquered capital of Ctesiphon.

Widely expected to be appointed caesar in 305 after Diocletian's abdication (according to colorful account by Lactantius, anyway). New caesar's reflected the influence of Galerius, since both were associated with him. One of the accidental circumstances was that the two rulers in the West had natural-born, capable, adult sons who were perfectly logical candidates to succeed them, whereas the two eastern rulers, Galerius and Diocletian, were son-less.

Constantine left court immediately to join his father. Several varieties of the story: imminent danger by Galerius? Summons by Constantius? Desperate last-minute flight to avoin Severus? Joins his father in time to campaign against Picts in Scotland. Father dies July 25, 306, in Erboracum (York) at which point Constantine is acclaimed Augustus by the troops. Supported by German (Allemannic) ally, Erocus. In a politically astute move, applies to Galerius for recognition (sends official implements/insignia?). Galerius is boxed in—legitimizes Constantine as Caesar, not Augustus, at the same time elevating Severus II to Augustus. Anything else would have meant large-scale civil war. Constantine accepts this, with his sizable base of political capital. Strikes first coins as Caesar and Prince of Youth; similar coins struck in eastern mints.

Three months after Constantine succeeds his father, Maxentius revolts in Rome (October 306), soon joined by his father, Maximianus, who came out of retirement to resume an active role as augustus. Constantine—very secure in his position, with Galerius' sanction—now begins a delicate, patient game of playing off Maxentius, Maximianus, Severus, and Galerius against one another.

Initially, Constantine allies himself with Maxentius, boxing in Severus II between them. Each recognizes the other

Constantine typically ranks right up there with Diocletian and Augustus when you think about the emperors who were most influential in shaping the empire during their reigns. Like his father, Constantius, and the other three Tetrarchs, Constantine was born in the Balkans far from Rome. Unlike those other men, who came from humble backgrounds, Constantine was raised at court as royalty—or what passed for that, in the 3rd century Roman empire. At the time of Constantine's birth, Constantius was already an established military leader. While Constantine was a teen-ager, Constantius was one of Diocletian's prefects; when Constantine was 22, and already an established young military leader and tribune, his father was named caesar.

Co-emperor with Licinius (312–316). In this period, Constantine and Licinius steadily simplified and systematized the coinage around their favorite deities. In Constantine's mints, Sol was far and away the dominant coin type, although Mars types were also issued by most mints, and Genius coins also continued to be issued for a couple of years. The notable exceptions were a flurry of types commemorating the defeat of Maxentius. The other mints that were formerly under the control of Maxentius were swiftly reorganized and reintegrated with Constantine's other mints. Constantine's victory was quickly recognized at Ticinium, Aquileia, and Rome, while the Ostia mint was closed and transferred to Arelate in Gaul. The mints at London and Rome, particularly, introduced a number of short-lived types commemorating the victory over Maxentius.

This period continued until the end of the first civil war between Constantine and Licinius, in 317. At the conclusion of the war, in addition to the coins shown here, new coinage types were introduced in the names of the sons of Constantine and Licinius who were now recognized as caesars.

Co-emperor with Licinius — post–civil war (317–325). Around 319 Constantine reformed his coinage again and introduced a new reverse design, one with two winged Victories flanking an altar. The reverse inscription VICTORIA LAETAE PRINC PERP translates as "Joyous victory to the eternal prince." In a move indicative of how Constantine was consolidating, centralizing, and systematizing his control of the empire and its bureaucracy, this design was the only bronze coin type struck throughout his domain, at every mint.

The other reason this type is significant is because it marks the end of pagan coinage, at least with respect to Constantine, and so is a significant milestone on the road to the empire's impending conversion to Christianity. The Mars and Sol coins of the previous period were the last pagan deities to appear on Roman coins. The mints under Licinius' control continued to strike coins with the Jupiter motif Licinius' patron god, but only until they came under Constantine' control.

While the general reverse motifs are very standardized, the coins feature all sorts of different details and symbols worked into the design as well as a wide variety of obverse bust types and helmet details. Sometimes these signify differences in implied status between Constantine, Licinius, and the caesars; sometimes these are mint control marks; othertimes they are simply a local variety or expression. Sometimes, these extra markings are explicitly Christian-related, inserted by Christian workers at the local mint.

Sole emperor (325–337). In 324, Constantine fought a second civil war with Licinius and defeated him once and for all. Constantine was finally master of the entire Roman empire—the first sole emperor since Diocletian began sharing the imperial power forty years before. As you might expect by now, this was accompanied by a new set of coin types.

• The "campgate" reverse was instituted throughout the empire at every mint, for both Constantine and the caesars.
• In addition, Constantine introduced new types commemorating his wife, Fausta, and his mother, Helena.

Despite the ubiquity of the campgates, there were a couple of interesting variations in this period. One was a series of anipegraphic coins (e.g. coins with no legend on the obverse) struck in Antioch, Cyzicus and other cities in 324/325. These were most likely struck to commemorate a visit by Constantine to those cities. Following the victory over Licinius, it would have been politically expedient to put in some "face time" at the important eastern cities, which he would not have visited since his youth when he was part of Diocletian's court.

Another was the "eyes to heaven" bust type that is typically is taken as a sign of Constantine's devotion. Constantine's massive victory over Licinius was no doubt seen by him as another confirmation of the power of the Christian god over the old pagans—especially since Licinius had begun reinstating pro-pagan, anti-Christian policies.

Also in this period, some of the traditional western mints were closed—London and Ticinum—and their personnel transferred to eastern mints, as the empire's center of gravity continued to shift eastwards. Constantine left Ticinum in 326, and never again returned to the western part of the empire.