Catalog
| Issuer | Eastern Roman Empire |
|---|---|
| Year | 383-408 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Follis (1⁄180) |
| Currency | Solidus (330-476) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 1.27 g |
| Diameter | 14 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC X#151 |
| Obverse description | Pearl-diademed bust right, star behind |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | DN ARCADIVS PF AVG |
| Reverse description | Three emperors standing facing |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | GLORIA ROMANORVM SMKA |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (383-408) SMKA - - |
| Numisquare ID | 3856762140 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Follis, issued by Eastern Roman Emperor Arcadius (383-408 AD) from the Cyzicus mint, marks a pivotal era. After Theodosius I's death, Arcadius governed the East, formalizing the Empire's division. His reign contended with internal politics and Gothic incursions. This bronze coinage, bearing the GLORIA ROMANORVM ("Glory of the Romans") legend, was vital for daily transactions, asserting imperial legitimacy amidst profound transformation.
Artistry: The coin embodies the late Roman Imperial stylistic school, shifting towards abstraction and frontality from classical naturalism. Engravers for these mass-produced bronzes are unknown. The obverse presents a stylized, diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust of Arcadius, underscoring imperial authority. The reverse, with GLORIA ROMANORVM, typically depicts the emperor standing, holding a standard and globe—a powerful symbol of dominion and Roman strength.
Technical/Grading: As a small bronze follis (14mm, 1.27g), this issue often shows traits of late Roman mass production. High-points prone to wear include Arcadius's diadem, hair, and facial features on the obverse, and the emperor's head, shoulders, and standard/globe details on the reverse. Technical strike quality varies; weak or off-center strikes are common, particularly on the reverse legend. Flan irregularities and minor surface imperfections frequently occur, reflecting utilitarian minting practices.