Honorius, AE Follis, Cyzicus Mint, 392-395 AD

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Description

Roman Imperial, Honorius, AE Follis (bronze, 4.44g, 22.5mm), Cyzicus Mint, 392-395 AD
Obv: D N HONORIVS P F AVG; Pearl-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust of Honorius to right
Rev: GLORIA ROMANORVM / SMKA Honorius standing front, head to right, holding labarum in his right hand and globe in his left
Ref: RIC 28c Rarity/Choice: Common, VF (beautiful; earthen highlights on dark patina)
Note: Flavius Honorius, who reigned as the Western Roman Emperor from AD 393 to 423, was the younger son of Theodosius I. His reign coincided with one of the most challenging periods in the history of the Roman Empire, marked by internal strife and external invasions. Despite being largely under the influence of powerful figures like Stilicho, his guardian and general, Honorius’s era was significant for the ongoing defense of the dwindling Western Roman Empire against barbarian incursions and internal decay. The obverse features a pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust of Honorius facing right. The pearl diadem is a symbol of imperial status, while the drapery and cuirass suggest his dual role as a sovereign and a defender of the empire. This portraiture, common for late Roman emperors, sought to convey the emperor’s preparedness to protect the realm, even as he was more of a figurehead than an active military leader.  The reverse shows Honorius standing frontally, with his head turned to the right. He holds a labarum in his right hand—a Christian military standard adorned with the Chi-Rho symbol—and a globe in his left hand, symbolizing dominion over the world. The imagery signifies the emperor’s role as the upholder of Roman glory and the Christian faith, while the globe reinforces the idea of Roman universal authority.

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