Anonymous, time of Maximinus II, AE Half Nummus, Antioch Mint, ‘Persecution’ issue, 310-313 AD – RR

$85.00

- +
SKU: R2.23 Categories: ,
Share On:

Description

Roman Imperial, Anonymous, time of Maximinus II, AE Half Nummus (bronze, 1.97g, 15.2mm), Antioch Mint, ‘Persecution’ issue, 310-313 AD 
Obv: GENIO ANTIOCHENI;  Full-length figure of the Tyche of Antioch seated facing on rock pile; below, half-length bust of river god Orontes facing, with arms spread
Rev: APOLLINI SANCTO; Apollo standing left holding a lyre and patera, SMA in exergue, B in the right field
Ref: Van Heesch 3b; McAlee 170b Rarity/Choice: Scarce (of big historical significance), VF (earthen highlights on dark brown patina)
Note: This anonymous nummus was minted during the reign of Maximinus II, a period marked by the final and most severe persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire. Maximinus II was a staunch pagan and intensified the efforts to restore traditional Roman religious practices and suppress Christianity. The nummus, a small bronze coin, was commonly used for daily transactions in the Roman Empire. This particular issue, often referred to as the “Persecution Issue,” carries significant religious and cultural symbolism reflecting the turbulent times. This coin is significant for its religious connotations during a period of intense persecution of Christians. The obverse underscores the civic pride and divine protection of Antioch, while the reverse venerates Apollo, reflecting the emperor’s promotion of traditional Roman deities. These images were part of the propaganda effort to reinforce pagan values and the legitimacy of the emperor’s rule during a time of religious conflict.

Related products