© Janovsky (CC BY)
© Janovsky (CC BY)
1 Solidus - Constantius II GLORIA REI PVBLICAE; Nicomedia
| Gold | 4.39 g | 21 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Constantius II (337-361) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 340-351 |
| Value | Solidus (1) |
| Currency | Solidus, Reform of Constantine (AD 310/324 – 395) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 4.39 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#355391 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Roma, helmeted, draped, enthroned front, and Constantinopolis, draped, enthroned left, head left, supporting a shield inscribed VOT/XX/MVLT/XXX; Roma holding spear in left hand; Constantinopolis holding scepter in left hand, her right foot on prow, mintmark in exergue.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
GLORIA - REI - PVBLICAE
VOT
XX
MVLT
XXX
SMNT
Unabridged legend: Gloria Rei-publicae / Votis Vicennalibus Multis Tricennalibus
Translation: Glory to the state / Vows for the twentieth anniversary and more for the thirtieth anniversary
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Constantius II, who was a Roman Emperor from 337 to 354 AD, on one side, and the inscription "GLORIA REI PVBLICAE" (Glory of the Republic) on the other side. This suggests that the coin was minted during a time when the Roman Empire was still using the traditional Roman Republican imagery and inscriptions, despite the fact that the Empire had already been established for over 300 years. This coin is a rare example of a Roman coin that still carries the spirit of the old Republic, while also showcasing the power and authority of the Roman Empire during that time.
