© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Nummus - Licinius II IOVI CONSERVATORI; Nicomedia
| Bronze | 2.46 g | 17 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Licinius I (308-324) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 321-324 |
| Value | Nummus (1⁄7200) |
| Currency | Solidus, Reform of Constantine (AD 310/324 – 395) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 2.46 g |
| Diameter | 17 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#107512 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 80% |
Reverse
Jupiter standing left, holding Victory on globe in right hand and leaning on sceptre with left hand; at feet left, an eagle holding wreath in its beak; at feet right, a captive seated with hands tied behind his back.
Letters in right field.
Mintmark and officina in exergue.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
IOVI CONSERVATORI
X
ІІГ
Translation: To Jupiter the Protector.
Comment
The mark X ІІГ in right field is interpreted as a denomination mark meaning 12.5 denarii. While resembling the letter gamma, the last letter/sign is an archaic version of the letter μ (Mu).
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman god Jupiter on one side, and the emperor Licinius II on the other. This coin was minted during Licinius' reign as emperor, which lasted from 321 to 324 AD. The image of Jupiter on the coin is significant because it highlights the importance of Roman mythology and religion during this time period. Additionally, the fact that the coin was made of bronze, a relatively inexpensive material, suggests that it was intended for everyday use by the general population, rather than being a high-value coin reserved for the wealthy elite.
