Helena, Augusta, AE Follis, Rome Mint, 326-328 AD – Securitas

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Description

Helena, Augusta, 324-328/30 AD, AE Follis (bronze, 2.83g, 19 mm), Rome Mint, 326-328 AD
Obv: FL HELENA AVGVSTA; Diademed and draped bust of Helena to right
Rev: SECVRITAS REI PVBLICE; Securitas, veiled, standing front, head to left, holding branch in her right hand; R (wreath) S in exergue
Ref: RIC 291 Rarity/Choice: Scarce Reverse Exergue , Good (beautiful earthen patina)
Note: Helena, also known as Saint Helena, was the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great. She held the title of Augusta from AD 324 until her death around AD 328/330. Helena is celebrated for her Christian faith and her significant influence on her son, Constantine, particularly in his promotion of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire. She is traditionally credited with finding the True Cross during a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, a discovery that greatly enhanced her veneration within the Christian community. This coin was minted during a period of relative peace and consolidation of power following Constantine’s victory over his rivals, leading to his sole rule of the Roman Empire. Helena, as Augusta, was a central figure in Constantine’s regime, representing the ideal of a Christian empress and the moral foundation of the ruling dynasty. The imagery on the coin reflects the importance of security and stability to the state, values that were closely associated with Helena’s influence. The obverse features a diademed and draped bust of Helena facing right. The diadem is a symbol of her high rank and royal status, while the drapery signifies her dignity and propriety. The portrayal of Helena emphasizes her role as the matronly and virtuous mother of the emperor, projecting an image of stability and continuity within the empire.  The reverse depicts Securitas, the personification of security and stability, standing front, her head turned to the left. She is veiled, holding a branch in her right hand. The branch is a symbol of peace, further emphasizing the theme of stability and tranquility within the empire. The letters “R(wreath)S” in the field refer to the Rome mint, indicating where the coin was struck.

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