Follis - Valentinianus I (GLORIA ROMANORVM; Thessalonica) (375-378) front Follis - Valentinianus I (GLORIA ROMANORVM; Thessalonica) (375-378) back
Follis - Valentinianus I (GLORIA ROMANORVM; Thessalonica) (375-378) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Follis - Valentinianus I GLORIA ROMANORVM; Thessalonica

 
Bronze 3.27 g 16.96 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Valentinian I (364-375)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
375-378
Value
Follis (1⁄180)
Currency
Solidus, Reform of Constantine (AD 310/324 – 395)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
3.27 g
Diameter
16.96 mm
Thickness
1.77 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#169129
Rarity index
91%

Reverse

Emperor walking right, head left, grasping bound captive at the top of the head with right hand and holding labarum with left hand.
Mintmark in exergue.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
GLORIA ROMANORVM
V | ⭑
  B
TES

Translation: Gloria Romanorum: "To the Glory of the Romans".

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Follis - Valentinianus I coin is that it features a unique blend of Christian and pagan imagery. On one side, the coin bears the image of Valentinianus I, while the other side features the legend "GLORIA ROMANORVM" (Glory of the Romans) surrounded by a wreath, which was a common motif in Roman coinage. However, the wreath on this coin is made up of leaves and berries, which is a departure from the traditional laurel wreaths used on Roman coins. This blending of Christian and pagan elements reflects the religious and cultural shifts that were taking place in the Roman Empire during the 4th century.