Licinius I, AE Follis, Antioch Mint, AD 318 – Jupiter – RR

$90.00

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SKU: R1.12 Categories: ,

Description

Roman Imperial, Licinius I, 308-324 AD, AE Follis (bronze, 3.4g, 18.7mm), Antioch Mint, AD 318
Obv: Laureate and robed bust, holding mappa and sceptre
Rev: Jupiter standing left, holding victory; captive to left; SMANT in exergue and Ī” in right field
Ref: RIC VII 27 Rarity/Choice: Scarce, VF (silvered)
Note: Licinius I, whose full name was Gaius Valerius Licinianus Licinius, ruled as Roman Emperor from AD 308 to 324. Initially, he shared power with Constantine I, his brother-in-law, but their relationship eventually deteriorated, leading to a series of conflicts. Licinius is known for his efforts to maintain stability in the Eastern Roman Empire and for his rivalry with Constantine, which culminated in his defeat and execution in AD 324. The coin was minted during a period of relative stability in the Eastern Roman Empire under Licinius. AD 318 was a time when Licinius and Constantine were ostensibly at peace following their previous conflicts. However, tensions remained, and both emperors continued to consolidate their power and prepare for potential future conflicts. Licinius’s depiction with a mappa and sceptre symbolizes his role in ceremonial functions and his authority as ruler. The portrayal of Jupiter on the reverse underscores the religious and ideological propaganda of the time, emphasizing the emperor’s divine favor and military prowess. The inclusion of a captive further reinforces the message of Licinius’s strength and victory over his adversaries.