© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Follis - Galeria Valeria VENERI VICTRICI CMH; Nicomedia
| Bronze | 6.12 g | 26.7 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Galerius (Gaius Galerius Valerius Maximianus) (305-311) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 308-310 |
| Value | Nummus / Follis (¼) |
| Currency | Argenteus, Reform of Diocletian (AD 293/301 – 310/324) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 6.12 g |
| Diameter | 26.7 mm |
| Thickness | 2.0 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#302874 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Venus standing facing, head left, holding up apple with extended right hand, raising drapery over left shoulder with left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering: VENERI VICTRICI CMH
Translation: Veneri Victrici: To Venus the victorious.
Comment
CMH refers to a mark of value: one hundred sestertius (C) for 48 (MH, customary Greek numeral system) coins to the pound.Interesting fact
The Follis coin featuring Galeria Valeria was minted during the reign of Emperor Maxentius (308-310 AD), who was known for his attempts to restore the Roman Empire's power and prestige, which had been declining in the previous centuries. Despite his efforts, the empire continued to face challenges, including internal conflicts, external threats, and economic difficulties. The coin's design, featuring the goddess Venus, may have been intended to promote the idea of victory and prosperity, which were key themes in Maxentius' propaganda.
