Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 305-306 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Nummus / Follis (1/4) |
| Currency | Argenteus, Reform of Diocletian (AD 293/301 – 310/324) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 10 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Thickness | 1 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Cohen#92, RCV IV#3754, RIC VI#667b |
| Obverse description | Laureated and cuirassed bust of Maximinus to right, saw from three quarters forward. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
GAL VAL MAXIMINVS NOB C (Translation: Galerius Valerius Maximinus Nobilissimus Cæsar : `Galerius Valerius Maximinus, so noble caesar`) |
| Reverse description | Genius naked and towered standing left, draped on hips, holding a patera in right hand and a cornucopiae in left hand. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
GENIO POPV-LI ROMANI S F PTR (Translation: Genio Populi Romani : At the Genius of the Roman People) |
| Edge | Rough |
| Mint |
TR Augusta Treverorum / Treveri,modern-day Trier, Germany |
| Mintage |
ND (305-306) PTR - Treveri, 1st officina - |
| Numisquare ID | 1015917590 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This follis was struck during the tumultuous Second Tetrarchy, specifically between 305 and 306 AD, marking the early reign of Maximinus II Daia as Caesar. Appointed by Galerius following the abdication of Diocletian and Maximian, Maximinus II governed the eastern provinces. This coin, however, was minted at Treveri (Trier), a significant mint in the Western Roman Empire, indicating the widespread adoption of standard types across the empire regardless of the specific Caesar's direct jurisdiction. The "GENIO POPVLI ROMANI" reverse type, common for folles of this era, served as a powerful propaganda message, appealing to traditional Roman values and prosperity during a period of complex imperial succession and political maneuvering.
Artistry: The follis exhibits the characteristic Late Roman Imperial style, a departure from the classical naturalism of earlier periods. While the specific engraver remains anonymous, typical for Roman coinage, the stylistic school emphasized a more abstract, frontal, and hieratic representation. The obverse would feature a laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Maximinus II, often with large, staring eyes and simplified facial features, conveying imperial majesty rather than individual likeness. The reverse design depicts the Genius of the Roman People, usually standing left, holding a patera and cornucopia, often with a modius or altar at his feet. This allegorical figure underscores the divine protection and abundance bestowed upon the Roman populace.
Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze with a substantial weight of 10 grams and a diameter of 28 mm, this follis represents a significant denomination for its time. For optimal grading, key high-points to observe on the obverse include the details of the laurel wreath, hair, and the prominent features of Maximinus II’s bust such as the nose and chin. On the reverse, clarity of the Genius’s head, the patera, cornucopia, and drapery folds are crucial. Technical strike qualities often vary; well-struck examples will show full, clear legends on both sides, a sharp portrait, and a complete, well-centered reverse design, including any mint marks in the exergue. Weak strikes or minor off-centering are not uncommon for this series.