Solidus - Helena SECVRITAS REIPVBLICE; Nicomedia
| Gold | 4.55 g | 20 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Constantine I (Flavius Valerius Constantinus) (306-337) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 324-325 |
| Value | Solidus (1) |
| Currency | Solidus, Reform of Constantine (AD 310/324 – 395) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 4.55 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#389241 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Securitas, draped, standing left, raising robe with right hand and lowering branch with left hand.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
SECVRITAS - REIPVBLICE
SMNΓ
Unabridged legend:
SECVRITAS REIPVBLICE
SMNΓ
Translation: Security of the Republic.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Solidus - Helena coin is that it features the first Christian empress, Helena, who was the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great. Her portrait on the coin was a significant departure from the traditional Roman depiction of women, as she was shown with a more realistic and individualized representation, rather than the idealized and generic image of a Roman matron. This coinage was issued during a pivotal moment in history, as the Roman Empire was transitioning from a pagan to a Christian society, and Helena's influence played a significant role in this shift.
