Licinius I, AE Follis, Antioch Mint, 308-324 AD – Jupiter

$45.00

- +
SKU: R1.3 Categories: ,
Share On:

Description

Roman Imperial, Licinius I, 308-324 AD, AE Follis (bronze, 2.8g, 16.8mm), Antioch  Mint
Obv: Laureate bust left, wearing imperial mantle, holding mappa, globe, scepter
Rev:  Jupiter standing left, holding Victory on globe and scepter; captive to left; A in the right feild, SMANT in exergue
Ref:  RIC VII 27 Rarity/Choice: Common, VF (nice earthen patina)
Note: Licinius I, co-emperor from AD 308 to 324, engaged in power struggles within the Roman Empire’s tetrarchy. His reign was marked by conflicts with his co-emperors, notably Constantine the Great. Despite initial alliances, Licinius faced defeat in several battles, leading to his eventual downfall and execution, solidifying Constantine’s dominance and the rise of Christianity within the empire. On the obverse, the laureate bust of Licinius I, adorned with the imperial mantle, signifies his elevated status as ruler. He is depicted holding a mappa, a ceremonial cloth used in Roman civic rituals, symbolizing his connection to the state, along with a globe and scepter, emblematic of his authority over the empire. The reverse of the coin portrays Jupiter, the king of the gods in Roman mythology, standing to the left. In his left hand, Jupiter holds Victory atop a globe, representing his dominion over the world and the triumph of imperial power. In his right hand, he wields a scepter, signifying his divine authority. To the left of Jupiter stands a captive, likely representing the conquered foes of Licinius I, underscoring his military prowess and the victories achieved under his reign. Overall, this coin serves as a tangible artifact of Licinius I’s rule, encapsulating the political, military, and ideological currents of the era, while also reflecting the enduring legacy of Roman imperial coinage as a medium of power and propaganda.

Related products